News & Events

Health Benefits of Almonds

The health benefits of almonds include getting relief from constipation, respiratory disorders, cough, hearth disorders, anemia, impotency, and diabetes. It also helps in hair care, skin care (psoriasis), and dental care.Found in places like Iran, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Turkey, Syria, Jordan and Israel, almond is a very nutritious nut. It is a rich source of vitamin E, calcium, phosphorous, iron and magnesium. It also contains zinc, selenium, copper and niacin. Almonds contain the most nutrients in comparison to all other nuts.

Both sweet and bitter almonds are available. Usually, sweet almonds are edible and bitter almonds are used to make almond oil, which is used to add flavor to food. Almonds are usually eaten raw, but people also add them as ingredients in salads. Almond milk is a delicious drink.You can eat almonds directly, preferably eat it empty stomach to ensure absorption of their nutrients. You can soak them in water overnight and eat in the morning. You can also garnish various dishes with crushed almonds.

Almonds are also known to have great medicinal value. Few of the benefits of almonds are given below.

Good for brain:

Almond is a source of many nutrients which help in development of the brain. Almond induces high intellectual level and has been considered as an essential food item for growing children. Many mothers give almonds soaked in water to their children daily in the morning (2-3 pieces of soaked almonds are
good enough, you can also remove the outer shell if it causes allergy to you.

Mono-saturated fat, protein and potassium contained in almonds are good for the heart. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and reduces the risk of heart diseases. The presence of magnesium in almonds helps to avoid heart attacks. Almonds help reduce C-reactive protein which causes artery-damaging
inflammation. Almond is also a source of folic acid. They therefore help to reduce the level of homocystein, which causes fatty plaque buildup in arteries.Skin care:

The benefits of almond for skin care are well known, and hence a massage with almond oil is often recommended for new born babies. Almond milk is also added in some soaps as almonds help in improving the complexion of the skin.

Regulates blood pressure:

Potassium present in almond helps to regulates blood pressure. Almonds are very low in sodium which also helps in containing blood pressure.
Prevention of cancer:
Almond improves the movement of food through the colon, thereby preventing colon cancer.

Protection against diabetes:

Almonds also help in reducing the rise in sugar and insulin levels after meals. This offers protection from diabetes.
Good in pregnancy:

Almond contains folic acid. Folic acid helps to reduce the incidence of birth defects in newborn babies.
Weight loss:
Unsweetened almond milk helps one to reduce weight. The mono-saturated fat contained in almonds satisfies appetite and prevents over-eating. Studies have revealed that almond rich low calorie diet is good for obese people to assist in shedding their weight.
Prevention of constipation:

Almonds are rich in fibre. Like most other fibre rich food, almonds also help in preventing constipation. Make sure you drink good amount of water after eating almonds.Boosts energy: The presence of manganese, copper and Riboflavin helps in energy production.

Ayurveda Home Remedies for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is an airborne bacterial disease that primarily affects the lungs in a human body. It can also affect bones, brain, heart, kidneys, stomach, intestines and other organs of the body. Tuberculosis or TB (abbreviated from Tubercle Bacillus) is considered as one of the most dangerous contagious diseases.

Tuberculosis is caused by the bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This disease can be spread by the tuberculosis patient when they cough or sneeze.

A weak immune system can invite this disease very easily. The nutrition deficiency causes low immunity system. The signs of tuberculosis are awful pain in the chest, frequent coughing, fever, tiredness, sweating in the night, weight loss, and expectoration of blood.

The first way to prevent this disease is to make sure you live in a proper ventilated place with enough sunlight. Never be in over-crowded areas where you are likely to get infections. People living in unhygienic conditions are more prone to tuberculosis.

You should have proper well balanced diet that can improve your immunity to fight all diseases. People who are suffering from nutritional disorders can easily fall prey to tuberculosis.

According to Ayurvedic concept, tuberculosis is known as ‘Rajyakshma’, which means ‘the king of disease’. As mentioned earlier, prevention is the best treatment. There are several natural home remedies for tuberculosis.

Ashwagandha: Prepare a paste of its root and add a little clarified butter and milk. Have this to improve your nutrition level. Ashwagandha is a useful herb for the treatment of pulmonary problems.

Tulasi: This herb is considered as a sacred plant in Ayurveda. It heals almost all the ailments in a holistic method. Recent studies have proven that holy basil leaves have anti-tuberculosis properties that are similar to streptomycin and isoniazide contained in anti-TB drugs.

Amla: Prepare a tablespoon of fresh amla juice and mix honey, and have it daily in the morning. This is a proven and very effective remedy for tuberculosis.

Haritaki: This herb is useful for the treatment of respiratory disorders such as bronchitis, asthma and tuberculosis.

Guduchi: The extract of this herb along with haridra extract are effective in preventing toxicity caused by taking drugs that treat tuberculosis.

Haridra: The roots are very beneficial in treating colds, bronchitis, asthma and tuberculosis.

Ayurvedic concept also believes in certain home remedies that will take care of tuberculosis. Having unpasteurized milk every two hours starting from eight in the morning for twelve hours is a good remedy for tuberculosis. Intake of fruits like oranges, custard apples, pineapples, and amla on a regular basis is a good treatment for tuberculosis.

shoulder injuries management in Ayurveda

Introduction:

Normal shoulder rhythm is highly essential for many popularsports and shoulder dysfunction causes significant impairment of performanceand quality of the athlete. There are somany abnormalities underpinning toshoulder pain and shoulder region remains one of the most challenging regionfor all sports medicine practitioners. Functional and structural anatomybiomechanics, kinesiology, dyanamic forces on shoulder on each sports should beunderstood.

Scapulohumeral rhythm: The scapular stablisers also play animportant role in shoulder joint movement. Glenohumeral movement requires thescapulothoracic, acromioclavicular, and sternoclavicular joints to alsomove. Normal shoulder function requiressmooth integration of movements of these joints; This integrated movement isreferred as scapulohumeral rhythm. An abnormality of scapulohumeral rhythmare most common cause for shoulder injury. It may be due to weakness ofscapular stabilizers with or without weakness of rotator cuff muscles,tightness of scapulohumeral muscles (infraspinatus, teres minor, andsubscapularis) OR involuntary adaptationto avoid a painful arc..

An imbalance between the deltoid and the rotator cuffmuscles strength may result in excessive superior movement of the humeral head,causing impingment of subacromialstructures.

Injury to shoulder:

Shoulder injuries are common in sports like volleyball,handball, basket ball, cricket, tennis, badminton and throwing activities likehammer throw, javelin, shot put etc…There are few occasions in which shoulderinjuries occur in Soccer, Kabbadi due to heavy fall on shoulder or stretchforce of the shoulder muscles due to pull.

Poor throwing technique, faultyswimming style, stiffness of lower cervical or upper thoracic spines, or muscles imbalance and weakness ofscapular stabilizing muscles. It is essential to consider the whole kineticchain, as any deficiency in the chain (eg stiff lumbar spine) put additionalstress on distal part of the chain (eg rotator cuff).

Over head serve or smash during game

Isunnatural and highly dynamic, often

exceedingthe physiological limits of the joint.

Optimalshoulder function requires good

kineticchain function, optimal stability, and

coordinationof the scapula in the overhead action.

Kinetic chain allows generation and

transfer of forces from the leg to the hand.

50% oftotal kinetic energy and total

forcesof the serve are developed in

theleg, hip, trunk link

Shoulderhas 13% contribution to total energy and 21% contribution to total force

Force distribution chain graph of shoulder

We have donetreatment for 32 cases of rotator cuff injuries in sports so far, among themmany National players including volley ball, handball and badminton. 2 caseswere National volley ball players and underwent surgery from Mumbai by Expertshoulder Arthroscopic specialist.

CASE STUDY:

Name of thepatient: R. Rajeeve

Working atBPCL (Former National Volleyball team)

Player) with rotator cuff injury- lostcareer due to surgery- 18 months back

Condition of the patient after surgerywas not promising even after rehabilitation phase. Patient cannot abduct right shoulder morethan 45 degree. ROM was limited on external rotation and forward flexioncompared to left shoulder joint.

Patient wason preparation to play for Kerala in National Games at Ranchi after thetreatment, Since he was unable to play for the Country for the last 2 years, heurged to join the team and started to Ranchi from our hospital without waitingfor further rehabilitation and resting period.

And finallyhe played for Kerala and performed well, and was success for the Kerala teamwith his performance.

?This study proves that Ayurvedic integratedapproaches can be successfully employed in sports injury rehabilitation fasterthan modern treatment and make their performance as before or evenbetter than before.

?We can speed up the recovery and earlypropioception without further resting period up to certain extend.

Although, there have been several studies in the past, linking meditation to brain health, a recent study has once again proven this fact.

The study, conducted by the Massachusetts General Hopital, Boston, revealed that meditating on a daily basis, can contribute to improvement in brain health, with the results beginning to show itself in a few months time.

The researchers followed the pattern on 16 participants, who undertook a mindfulness-based stress reduction, which included relaxation exercises, simple stretches, apart from meditation for about 30 minutes a day.
The MRI scan, taken eight weeks later, showed considerable gray matter density growth in areas of brain that involved learning and memory, sense of self and emotional regulation, and empathy and compassion, in comparison to the control group.
People have explicitly reported that they feel a lot better as they appear less stressed when they meditate.
A Psychology Instructor at Havard Medical School, Sara Lazar, said that this is sufficient proof that it is actually meditation that makes the difference and the reports reveal that participants who followed meditation practice also slept better, had less pain, less anxiety and depression, and better sense of well-being.

Eating 3 bananas a day could slash stroke risk by 21%

British and Italian researchers have found that eating three bananas cuts the risk of a stroke.

They said that having one banana for breakfast, one for lunch and one in the evening would provide enough potassium to reduce the chances of suffering a blood clot on the brain by around 21 per cent.

The findings suggest that thousands of strokes could be prevented by the consumption of other potassium-rich foods such as spinach, nuts, milk, fish and lentils, reports the Daily Mail.

Although some previous studies have suggested bananas could be important for controlling blood pressure and preventing strokes, results have not always been consistent.

In the latest research, scientists analysed data from eleven different studies – dating back to the mid-Sixties – and pooled the results to get an overall outcome.

They found a daily potassium intake of around 1,600 milligrammes, less than half the UK recommended daily amount for an adult of 3,500mg, was enough to lower stroke risk by more than a fifth.
The average banana contains around 500 milligrammes of potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure and controls the balance of fluids in the body.

Too little potassium can lead to an irregular heartbeat, irritability, nausea and diarrhoea.

Researchers from the University of Warwick and the University of Naples said potassium intake in most countries is well below the recommended daily amount.

But if consumers ate more potassium-rich foods and also reduced their salt intake, the annual global death toll from strokes could be cut by more than a million a year.

The study has been published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Managing Parkinson’s disease with Ayurveda

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is an age-related progressive neurological disorder, characterized by degeneration of central nervous tissues, thereby affecting the motor skills of the individual. It signals the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, resulting in a group of conditions called motor system disorders.
Symptoms

The primary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are tremor of hands, legs, jaw, and face, stiffness, rigidity of the limbs and trunk, postural instability, slowing of movements, stooped posture, impaired balance and co-ordination etc. Often, people with Parkinson’s disease show reduced facial expressions and speak in soft voice.
The secondary symptoms of the disease may include depression, personality change, sleep disturbances, speech impairments, constipation, sexual difficulties and dementia.Causes

Parkinson’s disease is caused by one or more environmental factors, inherited susceptibility to the disease, as the inheritance of the chromosome – 4 gene may lead to Parkinson’s disease in some people. The disease is caused by a combination of both genetic susceptibility and environmental stresses, resulting in death of brain cells.

Another latest theory suggests that free radicals may play a role in development of Parkinson’s disease. Free radicals are chemical compounds with a positive charge, created when dopamine is broken down, by combining it with oxygen.
Ayurvedic perception of Parkinson’s disease

According to Ayurveda, Parkinson’s is a Vata ailment that is chronic, with symptoms worsening over time. The disease has been described in ayurvedic texts as Kampavata (Kampa – tremor, vata – metabolic derangement predisposing to this neurologic and mental disease).
Parkinson’s disease usually affects people over the age of 65 years. Ancient Ayurvedic scripts suggest existence of such a disease more than 2000 to 3000 years ago.

Ayurveda works on the principle of achieving balance among three main doshas – Vata, pitta and kapha. Vata governs the air and body movement. According to ayurveda, the Parkinson’s disease is caused by an imbalance of the Vata Dosha, which is the presence of aggravated air in the brain. In the course of time, the aggravated air corrodes the area of the brain that controls involuntary movements, giving rise to Parkinson’s symptoms.
Treatments available in Ayurveda

There is no complete cure for Parkinson’s disease. Ayurvedic medicine has shown several medical trials that can help in controlling the symptoms great extent, with hardly any side effects.

Several formulations containing Kapikachu (Mucuna pruriens) were suggested for treatment of patients with Parkinson’s. Levodopa is the general major drug used in treating Parkinson’s disease. Kapikachu has levodopa as the major active compound. There are evidences indicating that Parkinson’s disease existed in ancient India, under the name Kampavata, and herbal preparations containing levodopa were administered to alleviate the symptoms of the disease.

In fact, it is said that herbal medicines containing levodopa, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and anti-cholinergics were traditionally used in treatment of Parkinson’s disease in India. A study conducted in the year 1995 on Hp-200 (derived from the Ayurvedic therapeutic agent Kapikachu seed powder), was tested on patients suffering from this disease. The results were monitored with Unified Rating Scale of the disease. The results showed that the ayurvedic treatment was effective and caused only minor side effects.

Currently, although there is no definite cure for Parkinson’s disease several medications offer dramatic relief from the symptoms.

Garlic is said to be a wonderful mega resource that controls oxidative damage to neurons. Garlic extract contains several organosulfur compounds, other than allicin, that are vital and beneficial in balancing vata components. Therefore, 5gm garlic paste, along with 5gm gingely oil, with a pinch of black rock salt, taken twice a day, can prove effective in reducing symptoms.

A decoction of Tinospora cordifolia, Pluchea lanceolata, Zingiber officinale, Boerrhvia diffusa, 20ml each can be mixed with 10ml castor oil and taken twice a day. The disturbances of vayu in the colo-rectal region, and be treated with moist laxatives such as triphala and psyllium.

Similarly, mucuna pruriens, along with neuro-protective herbs such as Ashwagandha and Haridra can be used for treatment. The ayurvedic formulation made with Ashwagandha and Mucuna pruriens 10gm can be taken with milk twice a day for few weeks.

Herbs such as Brahmi and Jatamansi can be added to formulas or used separately. They also help in controlling secondary symptoms of the disease such as depression.

Sanjivani Parkinson’s Herbs, a supplement of Mucuna Prureins, Asiatica, Hydrocotyle and Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), is said to be effective in promoting brain locomotive functions. This is a safe and natural relief for various movement disorders, when consumed in 500mg capsule form twice daily.Yoga

Practice of yoga can help people suffering from Parkinson’s to control and endure the disease. Yogic breathing programs such as Bhramari Pranayama, coupled with ayurvedic treatments such as Pancha Karma can reduce the need for levodopa and related drugs, and helps in alleviating and reducing symptoms of the disease. Certain other yoga postures such as standing, supine, sitting or inverted postures can be performed under guidance and supervision of trained experts of yoga, in a manner such that even patients with limited flexibility can be trained to perform them. It can help in improving flexibility and overall quality of life.

Ayurvedic skin care with Almond lotion

almond lotion and skin careAlmond is one of the best skin foods from nature. Almond is a vital ingredient for skin care in Ayurveda. Most ayurvedic skin care lotions and creams have almond as an ingredient. Here are a few Ayurvedic almond lotions and creams for improving skin texture and for enjoying a healthy skin.

Almond nourishing cream: A nourishing cream made from a combination of almond oil, Wheat germ oil, sandalwood, and nutmeg, helps in keeping skin smooth and soft. It also provides moisture, while retaining skin tone. Nutmeg and Wheat germ oil combine to uplift and rejuvenate your skin, while also being good anti-wrinkle agents. This could be used as a night cream at bedtime.

Almond and Saffron Moisturizing lotion: A lotion made by combining wheat-germ oil, almond oil, beharea, saffron and fenugreek, helps in skin softening and improving blood supply and in re-vitalizing the skin.

Almond Hand and Body lotion: A lotion ciontaining Almond, Jatamansi, Sunflower, Safflower and Wheatgerm oil is a rich luxurious formulation, which nourishes and moisturizes the body. It is easily absorbed into the skin, leaving it smooth and soft. Almond and safflower being natural moisturizers, softens skin, while Jatamansi is a natural stimulant, which helps in removing dead cells.

Almond and Cucumber Extract moisturizing Cream: This moisturizing day cream, containing cucumber extract, soothes and refreshes skin, while the sweet almond oil supplies additional nourishment, leaving skin more radiant and pampered and youthful. This also fights aging of the skin.

Almond-Rose Body lotion: This is an easy to make almond body lotion, which can be easily prepared at home. Stir together, ¼ cup each of rosewater and glycerin. Add 2tbs of witch hazel and 1tbs. of almond oil and mix well till they dissolve. Use regularly for a smooth, even skin tone.

The benefits of honey can be seen in your weight lossprogram as well. If you are trying to lose weight, honey can be of great helpto you. But before we move on to the benefits of honey in weight loss we shouldaddress the concerns people have regarding honey.

Many people ask: Isn't honey a type of sugar? Does it notadd any weight? Won't the calories in honey negate your weight loss efforts?

You are right - honeycontains sugar. But unlike refined sugar, honey contains vitamins andminerals too. Normally, to digest sugar, the vitamins and minerals stored inbody are utilized, rendering the body devoid of these nutrients. Thesenutrients are essential to dissolve fats and cholesterol. Thus when you eat toomuch sugar you tend to increase weight not just because of the calories but dueto lack of vitamins and minerals. On the contrary, honey being a good source ofnutrients helps you in reducing weight.

Honey and warm water:Normally fat remains as an un-used resource in your body adding bulk and weight.It is believed that honey mobilizes this stored fat. When this fat is burnt toprovide energy for your daily activities, you see a gradual decrease in yourweight and obesity levels. It is suggested that you drink this honey (about onetablespoon daily), with equal amount of warm water.

Honey and lemonjuice: Honey can also help in weight loss when consumed with warm water andlemon juice. Many people drink this formula first thing in the morning toreduce their weight.

Honey and cinnamon:Another useful recipe is cinnamon powder with honey and warm water. Take onetablespoon of cinnamon power, one tablespoon of honey and one cup of warmwater, mix the ingredients properly and drink this mixture empty stomach. It isnot clear how this mixture helps in weight loss; however, many people claim tohave derived benefits from its regular consumption.

Honey also improves your digestion and thus helps in weightloss. Hence honey is also consumed after dinner especially after overeating.

Finally, many people stop eating food to reduce theirweight. Beware of such practices. If you don't eat sufficient food (whichinvolves calories, vitamin, minerals, fibers) your immune system will becomeweak. Your weight loss program should focus on reducing the intake of caloriesand not stopping the intake of calories. Further, you should also increase thedaily expense of calories by regular exercise.

Health Benefits of Potato

All those naughty children around the world, who dislikeeating any vegetable and hate them like anything, share another commoninterest. All of them like potatoes. This is the magic of the potatoes. Youwill hardly find anyone who dislikes them.

Today one cannot even imagine vegetables without potatoes.This shapeless and ugly looking tuber, bearing the scientific name SolanumTuberosum, has cast a spell on us. Potato lovers (including me), and those whodo not like them, will be equally delighted to know that potatoes have more instore for them than just carbohydrates and calories. Let us uncover them.

The health benefitsof potato include the following:

Weight Gain:Potatoes are mounds of carbohydrates and contain little proteins too. Thismakes it an ideal diet for those lean and thins who desperately want to put onweight. The vitamins like vitamin-C and B-complex also help in properabsorption of this carbohydrate. That is why they make an inevitable part ofthe diet of Sumo Wrestlers.

Digestion: Sincepotatoes predominantly contain carbohydrates, they are easy to digest andfacilitate digestion. This property makes them a good diet for patients, babiesand those who cannot digest hard food but need energy. But you must rememberthat eating too much of potatoes regularly may cause acidity in the long run.Potatoes also contain considerable amount of fiber or roughage, more in rawpotatoes and cold ones than boiled or hot ones.

Skin Care:Vitamin-C and B-complex and minerals like potassium, magnesium, phosphorus andzinc are good for the skin. Apart from that, pulp obtained from crushed rawpotatoes, mixed with honey, can serve as excellent skin and face packs. Thishelps even curing pimples and spots on the skin. Again, this pulp, if appliedexternally on burns, gives a quick relief and heals fast. Smashed potatoes,even water in which potatoes are washed, are very good for softening andcleaning skin, especially around elbows, back of the palms etc.

Scurvy: Thevitamin-C present in potatoes can help prevent this dreaded deficiency disease,caused due to lack of vitamin-C. It is characterized by cracked lip corners,spongy and bleeding gums, frequent viral infections like cold etc.

Rheumatism: Thereare two aspects of this factor. Vitamins, calcium and magnesium in potatoeshelp giving relief in rheumatism. Water obtained from boiling potato givesrelief in rheumatism. But due to high starch or carbohydrate content it tendsto increase body weight which may have adverse effects on rheumatic people.

Inflammation:Potato is very effective in inflammation, internal or external. Since it issoft, easy digestible and has a lot of vitamin-C (very good anti-oxidant andrepairs wears and tears), potassium and vitamin-B6, among others, it relievesinflammation of intestines and the digestive system. It is very good diet forthose who have mouth ulcers. Again, raw smashed potato can be applied torelieve external inflammation, burns etc.

High Blood Pressure:Since high blood pressure is caused due to a number of reasons, includingdiabetes, tension, indigestion, nature of food and many such, different are thecures. Potato can be used to relieve High Blood Pressure due to tension,indigestion etc. due to abundance of vitamin-C and B in it, but should beavoided if it is due to diabetes. The fiber present in it is helpful inlowering cholesterol and improves functioning of insulin in the body, whichaids to lowering of blood pressure, since there is a direct relation betweenthe blood pressure and the glucose level in the blood and insulin regulatesthis glucose level.

Brain Function:Proper functioning of the brain depends largely on the glucose level, oxygensupply, some members of the vitamin-B complex and some hormones, amino acidsand fatty acids like omega-3 fatty acids. Potatoes cater to almost all theneeds mentioned above. They are high in carbohydrates and thus maintain goodlevel of glucose in the blood which does not let brain fatigue creep in andkeeps the brain active and alert. Next is oxygen which is carried to the brainby the haemoglobin in the blood and whose main constituent is iron. Potatocontains iron too and thus aids to this function also. Next is the turn ofvitamin-B complex. Here again, potato is rich in vitamin-B6 and contains tracesof other members of this complex. In addition, it contains certain otherelements like phosphorus and zinc which are good for brain too.

Heart Diseases:Apart from the vitamins (B-complex, C), minerals and roughage, potatoes alsocontain certain substances called Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin etc.) whichare beneficial for heart and other internal organs. But again, since it raisesthe glucose level in the blood and over intake may cause obesity, which in turncan put a lot of pressure on your heart; hence it is not recommended for obeseor diabetic people.

Kidney Stones:Kidney Stones, also known as Renal Calculi, are caused mainly due to raisedlevel of uric acid in blood. In such cases, high proteins should be avoided,particularly animal proteins such as meat, turkey, shrimps, sea fishes, eggs,milk etc. as well as spinach, raw plantain, black grams and certain beans,which drastically increase the level of uric acid in blood. Iron and calciumalso help form the stone. Potato is rich in both of these and normally seemsnot fit from this point of view. But it is very rich in magnesium which resistsaccumulation or deposition of calcium (calcification) in the kidney and othertissues, thereby proving beneficial for treatment of renal calculi.

Diarrhea: It is anexcellent energy-rich diet for those suffering from diarrhea, since it is veryeasy to digest as well as contains mild roughage. But an over intake may causediarrhea due to excess ingestion of starch.

Other Benefits and Cautions: Juice of potato is a goodtreatment for burns, bruises, sprains, skin problems, ulcers, effect ofnarcotics, cancer of prostrate and uterus and formation of cysts or tumors. Onthe other hand, some care also needs to be taken while eating potatoes. Greenpotatoes are poisonous, and so are potato leaves and fruits, as they containalkaloids like solanine, chaconine and arsenic whose overdose may prove fatal.Moreover, the glycemic index (in simple words, the energy or sugar content) ofpotatoes is very high (above 80) and so obese, diabetic and those who areslimming down should avoid eating potatoes. If eaten, potatoes are better bakedthan raw or fried.

Health Benefits of Rice

Health benefits of rice include providing fast and instantenergy, good bowel movement, stabilizing blood sugar levels and providingessential source of vitamin B1 to human body. Other benefits include skin care,resistance to high blood pressure, dysentery and heart diseases. Rice is thestaple food in most of the countries and it is an important cereal crop thatfeeds more than half of the world’s population.

Health benefits of rice can be found in more than fortythousand varieties of this cereal available in the world. The two maincategories include whole grain rice and white rice. Whole grain rice is notprocessed much, therefore it is high in nutritional value, whereas white riceis processed so that the bran or outer covering is removed and it has lessnutritional value. Rice can also be defined by the length of each grain. Indianor Chinese cuisines specialize in long grained rice, whereas western countriesprefer short or medium sized grains. According to Rice-Trade, rice is extremelynutritious.

Some of the healthbenefits specified by them are as follows:

Great Energy Source:As rice is rich in carbohydrates, it acts as fuel for the body and aids innormal functioning of the brain.

Cholesterol Free:Eating rice is extremely beneficial for health, just for the fact that it doesnot contain harmful fats, cholesterol or sodium. It forms an integral part ofbalanced diet.

Rich in Vitamins:Rice is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like niacin, vitamin D,calcium, fibre, iron, thiamine and riboflavin.

Resistant Starch:Rice abounds in resistant starch, which reaches the bowel in undigested form.It aids the growth of useful bacteria for normal bowel movements.

High Blood Pressure:As rice is low in sodium, it is considered best food for those suffering fromhigh blood pressure and hypertension.

Cancer Prevention:Whole grain rice like brown rice is rich in insoluble fibre that can possiblyprotect against many types of cancers. Many scientists believe that suchinsoluble fibres are vital for protecting the body against cancerous cells.

Dysentery: Thehusk part of rice is considered as an effective medicine to treat dysentery. Athree month old rice plant’s husks is said to contain diuretic properties.Chinese people believe that rice considerably increases appetite, cures stomachailments and indigestion problems.

Skin Care:Medical experts say that powdered rice can be applied to cure some forms ofskin ailments. In Indian subcontinent, rice water is duly prescribed byayurvedic practitioners as an effective ointment to cool off inflamed skinsurfaces.

Alzheimer’s Disease:Brown rice is said to contain high levels of neurotransmitter nutrients thatcan prevent Alzheimer’s disease to a considerable extent.

Heart Disease:Rice bran oil is said to have antioxidant properties that promotescardiovascular strength by reducing cholesterol levels in the body.

According to International Rice Research Institute inPhilippines, the nutritional value of rice needs to be improved more so that itbenefits mankind. Rice, being the mostdominant cereal crop in most of the countries can improve the health conditionof millions of people who consume it. Efforts are made to increase themicronutrient value of rice by mixing traditional methods of growing crops andmodern bio-technology. The institute further states that development of ricewith high iron and zinc compounds could be possible through bio-fortification.That can also induce high quality yields, which could be eagerly accepted byfarmers as well as rice consumers.

More on Rice:

Rice can also prevent chronic constipation. The insolublefibre from rice acts like a soft sponge that may be pushed through intestinaltract quickly and easily. Brown rice and whole grains are said to be rich ininsoluble fibre. But, it is advisable to drink lots of water for relievingconstipated state along with fibrous foods. Diabetic patients are recommendedto include brown rice rather than white rice that contains low levels ofglycemic index. Just a cupful of brown rice on daily basis provides you withalmost 100% manganese value, which aids in producing energy from carbohydratesand protein. Brown rice is extremely beneficial for normal functioning ofnervous system and production of sex hormones.

Herbal Vitamin Supplements

Human body requires vitamins for remaining healthy, and abalanced diet usually gives most of the vitamins that is essential to remainhealthy. While most people get enough vitamins through diet, and do not requirea supplement, elderly people and kids who do not eat enough, may benefit fromvitamin supplements.

Research indicates that during stress or illness, the bodyuses up more vitamins than required and hence, individuals who are busy feeltired by the end of the day. Hence diet should be given special attention, or avitamin supplement needs to be taken regularly. Natural, being the best, herbalvitamin capsules can be chosen as a supplement in addition to regular diet, onconsultation with a health practitioner.

A few such herbal vitamin supplements are mentioned below:

Wheat Grass vitaminsupplement – Is available in the form of capsules. Wheat grass is abeneficial nutritional supplement that improves energy levels, strengthensimmune system, reduces risks of cancer, and most of all, contains all nutrients,vitamins and minerals that is required by the body for good health. Wheatgrass comprises of apigenin, chlorophylland agropyrene, in addition to flavonoids, Vitamins E, C, and A, magnesium,calcium, iron and amino acids.

Amla VitaminSupplements – Is available in the form of capsules and is made from freshpulp or juice of the Amalaki fruit. Amalakai is effective for respiratoryailments, and is high in Vitamin C and is a good antioxidant. It is a stomachicand is carminative. It is also used in ayurvedic preparations as anantipyretic, aphrodisiac, cardio-tonic, gastrointestinal tonic etc.

Aloe Vera herbalvitamin capsules – though available as capsules, each Aloe Vera capsulecontains Vitamin B, Vitamin C and amino acids. These capsules help in lymphaticand blood circulation enhancement, while also facilitating digestion. The AloeVera plant has been used for healing wounds and infection, and is a trulymedicinal plant with tremendous health benefits. Apart from healing skininjuries and wounds, it is orally taken as a supplement for arthritis,heartburn, asthma, rheumatism, lowers blood sugar, stomach ulcers, liverproblems, prostate problems, urinary tract infections, indigestion, hepatitis,and helps in general detoxification.

There are various such herbal vitamin supplements which areavailable in market, and can be safely taken on consultation with a doctor.There are various herbal vitamin supplements in the form of capsules or tonicfor all age groups that help in maintaining energy and health. Starting fromtonics that improve appetite, there are herbal vitamins which serve nutritive,rejuvenative, restorative and digestive purposes.

Different kinds of kidney stones include Uric, CalciumStones, and Cystine. Men are more likely to develop kidney stones, than women.A kidney stone could block the urinary tract system, resulting in pain in lowerback, groin, and rib area, nausea and vomiting, bloody urine, frequent urination,burning sensation during urination, accompanied by fever and chills.

Ayurveda recommendsthe following for treating Kidney Stones:

Boil two figs inwater, and drink every morning for one month.

A teaspoon of basil leaves juice can be boiled with honey.This can be consumed each morning for five to six months.

A cup of juice with radish leaves can be drunk twice a day.

Drinking a glass of fresh tomato juice with a hint of saltand pepper could be beneficial.

Apart from the said treatments, Ayurveda recommends eating adiet rich in grean leafy vegetables, and particularly including potatoes,parsley, watercress, cucumber, celery, garlic, asparagus, banana, papaya,watermelon, soybeans, cocoa, eggs, and spinach. Cut down on animal protein, andavoid cottage cheese, and sour kinds of foods such as kefir and yogurt. Also,make sure to drink atleast eight glasses of distilled water a day, and avoidcaffeine.

Kidney stones, when left untreated could develop into kidneyfailure or prostrate cancer.

Health Benefits of Drinking Water

Health benefits of drinking water include maintenance of pHbalance, body temperature, metabolism, breathing, prevention of constipation,heartburn, migraine, gastritis and ulcers, kidney stones, cardiovasculardisorders, rheumatoid arthritis, backache and osteoporosis. It is required inexcess amount by pregnant women and nursing mother. It also plays importantroles in kidney functions, skin tone etc. Water is an essential component ofour body and plays vital roles in maintaining the pH balance, metabolicprocesses, delivering useful products and clearing waste products, andfunctioning of almost all major organ systems of the body.

Health benefits of water have been accepted by medicalexperts across the globe. It is the most abundant compound present on thisearth. All living forms, in some or the other way, require water for theirmetabolic activities. It has vital roles to play in our body and one could notimagine the existence of an individual without water. Human body contains 2/3rdwater by weight. Blood, muscles, brain and bone are composed of 83%, 75%, 74%and 22% of water respectively.

Water plays important roles in the functioning ofcirculatory, respiratory, excretory and nervous systems, along with metabolicreactions, maintenance of skin components and prevention of a number ofdisorders.

Benefits: Waterhas one of the most important roles to play in maintaining a healthy body andsome of its benefits include:

PH Balance: Humanbody maintains a pH range of 7.35-7.45 for proper physiological processes. Anacidic shift may lead to sickness and inability of the body to assimilatevitamins and minerals. Thus, it should be above the value of 7, which isfavourable to body’s oxygen uptake, higher energy levels, and better immuneresponse to diseases. This is attainable by consuming lots of water.

Body Temperature:Much of the human body is made up of water and this fluid is responsible forregulation of body temperature. We undergo perspiration in summers to dissipatethe excess heat in order to lower our temperature. This temperature regulationproperty has been attributed to water.

Metabolism: Wateris the carrier of oxygen, nutrients, hormones, etc. to body parts and providesmedium for removal of toxins, dead cells, waste material, etc. The proteins andenzymes involved in various fundamental processes also require water for theirproper functioning.

Breathing: Waterplays its role in distributing oxygen all over the human body while collectingthe carbon dioxide from all these parts by dissolving these gases.

Constipation,Heartburn, Migraine, Gastritis and Ulcers: A number of disorders arerelated with water deficiency. Constipation, heartburn, migraine, gastritis andulcers can be prevented by taking modest amounts of water routinely.

Kidney Stones: Asper the International Kidney Stone Institute, 2 litres or 10 glasses must beconsumed each day to prevent from kidney stones. Water is the best solvent andthis property does not let the salts and minerals to accumulate to form stone.The salts reaching kidney gets diluted and eliminated in urine.

CardiovascularDisease: Water can prevent cardiovascular disorders to a large extent. Itmaintains proper viscosity of blood and plasma and fibrinogen distribution andtherefore adequate hydration of vascular components is advisable.

Rheumatoid Arthritis:Joints in human body are prone to continuous friction and weathering. These canbe maintained in proper shape by intake of proper amount of water. Decrease inwater consumption may lead to rheumatoid arthritis.

Backache: Theback portion of our body rests on the spinal cord. The spinal disc core is madeup of large volume of water and dehydration leads to back pain in suchindividuals.

Osteoporosis:According to the research conducted by the Linus Pauling Institute, individualsconsuming adequate amounts of water have reduced risks to osteoporosis and hipfractures.

Pregnant Women andNursing Mother: A pregnant women carries a new life in her womb thatdevelops from her. The nutrients and other factors needed for its growth can becarried from mother to the foetus via blood which in turn needs water.Constipation, bladder infection, and haemorrhoids are common during pregnancyand these can be avoided by taking excess of water during this period.

Kidney Functions:The excretory material in the form of urea is highly toxic to body tissues andmust be diluted before their passage. This is again done by the ‘universalsolvent’ water.

Skin Tone:According to the University of Minnesota, skins may get affected by frost biteand blisters. It has been established that proper water levels in the bodyprevents the body from dehydration. This in turn maintains the turgidity ofskin. A number of skin problems can be prevented by taking adequate amount ofwater.

The Lead Researcher at the Institute of Medical Research,Queensland, Dr. Christina Nagle, said that the results of the study indicatedthat drinking more than four cups of black, green or herbal tea a day, canreduce the risk of ovarian cancer by nearly 30 percent.

Although the previous studies in animals, did suggest thattea could inhibit the growth of ovarian cancer cells, results of human studieswere inconsistent.

Nagle said that the findings suggest that antioxidants intea are beneficial in fighting cancer in humans.

The study included a survey conducted on approximately 2700Australian women (half with ovarian cancer and half without), wherein, eachthey were questioned about their lifestyle and diet, including tea-drinkinghabits.

Green tea is thought to be the healthiest kind of tea.Although the results did not show a strong link to green tea alone, with allthe evidence received so far from across the world, it is suggested thatdrinking one or more cups of green tea a day may reduce risk of developingovarian cancer by atleast 40 percent.

The study has been published in Cancer Causes Control.

Migraine patients may find relief in yoga

According to a new study, a combination of breathingexercises, yoga postures and relaxation may help reduce the intensity andfrequency of migraine attacks.

A group of Indian Researchers, led by Dr. P.J. John ofRajasthan University, Jaipur, studied seventy two migraine patients, dividedinto two groups. One group was given advice on pain management by preventingmigraine attacks through lifestyle changes and diet modification. The othergroup was given yoga therapy that included yoga postures, breathing exercises,meditation, and relaxation techniques. The participants had to practice onehour a day for five days a week, except during the migraine attack.

On completion of three months, there was an overallimprovement in the intensity and frequency of attacks among the yoga group,while the other group had no change in symptoms or experienced even worsesymptoms.

In addition to this, the pain relief also brought aboutimprovements in depression and anxiety symptoms, as gentle yoga postures andbreathing exercises are said to have a calming effect on the nervous system.Studies suggested that yoga could also help prevent chronic back pain and joinpain in arthritic patients.

Accodring to John’s team the study is the preliminaryevidence that indicates yoga therapy could be an effective migraine treatment,and more studies are required for confirmation of results.

Health Benefits of Lemon

Health benefits of lemon include treatment of throatinfections, indigestion, constipation, dental problems, fever, hair care, skincare, internal bleeding, rheumatism, burns, overweight, respiratory disorders,cholera and high blood pressure. Known for its therapeutic property sincegenerations, lemon helps to strengthen your immunity system and cleanses yourstomach. It is not only a blood purifier but also enables body to fightdiseases. Lemon juice, especially, has several health benefits associated withit. Useful for treating kidney stones, curing heart strokes and reducing thebody temperature, lemonade helps you to stay calm and cool.

Health benefits of lemon are due to many nourishing elementslike vitamin C, vitamin B, phosphorous, proteins, and carbohydrates present init. Lemon is a fruit that contains flavonoid, a composite that holdsantioxidant and anti-cancer properties. It helps to prevent diabetes,constipation, high blood pressure, skin care, fever, hair care, dental care,indigestion and many other health problems. Studies conducted at the AmericanUrological Association highlight the fact that lemonade or lemon juice can curekidney stones by forming urinary citrate, which can prevent formation ofcrystals.

People use lemon to make lemonade by mixing lemon juice withwater. Many people use lemon as a washing agent, as it can remove stains. Lemoncan also repel mosquitoes. Drinking oflemon juice with olive oil helps to get rid of gall stones. Lemon is well knownfor its medicinal control and is used in many different ways. As per theresults reported in a study of Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, lemon provideshuman guard against inflammatory polyarthritis and arthritis.

Various health benefits of lemon can be described as under:

Indigestion andConstipation: Lemon juice helps to cure problems related to indigestion andconsitpation. Add a few drops of lemon on your dish (take care lemon does notgo well with milk), and it will aid in difestion. Lemon acts as a bloodpurifier and a cleansing agent. A good drink post lunch or dinner is freshlemon soda (also called fresh lime soda in many places). The recipe is addlemon juice, some cold water, soda, salts (common salt or rock salt) andsugar/honey (if you want it sweet), and mix it in a glass. You can also addsome mint leaves or crushed fennel seeds for added taste. Drink this wheneveryou have a heavy lunch/dinner.

Fever: Lemonjuice can treat a person who is suffering from cold, flu or fever. It helps tobreak fever by increasing perspiration.

Dental Care:Lemon juice is used in dental care also. If fresh lemon juice is applied on theareas of toothache, it can assist in getting rid of the pain. The massages oflemon juice on gums can stop gum bleeding. It gives relief from bad smell andother problems related to gums. In addition, lemon can also be used in regularcleansing of your teeth. You can look for a toothpaste containing lemon as oneof the ingredients, or add a drop of lemon juice on your toothpaste. Somepeople also rub their teeth with the outer shell (the inner side touching yourteeth) of a lemon after removing the juice. Take care - if you mouth startsburning, quickly put some water in your mouth.

Hair Care: Lemonjuice has proved itself in the treatment of hair care on a wide scale. Lemonjuice if applied on the scalp can treat problems like dandruff, hair fall andother problems related to hair and scalp. Lemon juice if applied on the hair,gives a natural shine to hair.

Skin Care: Lemonjuice, being a natural antiseptic medicine, can participate to cure problemsrelated to skin. Lemon juice can be applied to stop sun burn also. It helps toget relieved from bee sting as well. Lemon juice can also be applied on theskin for acne and eczema problems. It acts as an anti ageing remedy and canremove wrinkles and blackheads. Drinking of lemon juice mixed with water andhoney brings glow to the skin. If you search thoroughly in the market, you willfind some soaps containing lemon juice also.

Burns: Lemonjuice if applied on the areas of burns can fade the scars. As lemon is acooling agent, it reduces the burning sensation on the skin.

Internal Bleeding: As lemon has antiseptic and stypticsproperties, it can stop internal bleeding. You can apply lemon juice on small cottonand place inside to nose to stop nose bleeding.

Rheumatism: Lemonis also a diuretic and can treat rheumatism and arthritis. It helps to flushout bacteria and toxins out of the body.

Weight Loss: If aperson takes lemon juice mixed with lukewarm water and honey, it can reduce thebody weight as well. Read more

Respiratory Disorders:Lemon juice assists in curing respiratory problems, along with breathingproblems and revives a person suffering from asthma. Lemon, being a rich richsource of vitamin C, helps in dealing with respiratory disorders.

Cholera: Thediseases like cholera or malaria can be treated with lemon juice, as it acts asa blood purifier.

Foot Relaxation:Lemon is an aromatic and antiseptic agent and is useful in foot relaxation. Addsome lemon juice in warm water and dip the foot in the water to get footrelaxation.

Corn: Lemon juicecan dissolve lumps on the skin. It can be applied at the places where the skinhas been hardened up. Drinking of lemon juice with water can facilitate thepatient to get rid of stones.

Throat Infections:Lemon is an excellent fruit that aids in fighting problems related to throatinfections as it has an antibacterial property.

High Blood Pressure:Drinking lemon juice is helpful for people suffering with heart problems as itcontains potassium. It controls high blood pressure, dizziness, nausea asprovides relaxation to mind and body. It reduces mental stress and depression.

Introduction to Ayurvedic Acupuncture

Ayurvedic Acupuncture (also known as Marmapuncture) makes use of acupuncture needles that penetrates the skin at particular acupoints to balance the Prana (life force) of internal body environment(microcosm) with that of external world(macrocosm) for bringing about a balance or health. The needles used could be normal or medicated.
History – Ayurvedic Acupuncture was practiced in ancient days as a global system, using needle-like blow darts at various points in the body, often making use of herbs by dipping the needle point into the herb liquid, for curing diseases. Ayurvedic Acupuncture was even taught as a subject in major universities of ancient India. Today, Ayurvedic Acupuncture is again gaining popularity and is considered “an open and endless science”.
Method – Ayurvedic Acupuncture cures by stimulating the body to heal rather than treating the disease by itself, when that particular marma is gently needled. The marmas are responsible for connecting the various systems in the body with their internal organs through a series of ducts called ‘Nadis’. They carry ‘prana’ to each marma.
Ayurvedic Acupuncture aims to balance all levels of the Self, and not just the physical level. This principle is termed as Akashic Balancing or Etheric Balancing, where the marmas are used to assist the body in balancing its own bio-computer to achieve homeostasis. Hence in this Akashic balancing the physical body is first treated by needling appropriate points based on the aggravated dosha (humour), and the unbalanced elements of the individual.
When the patient responds positively to one or several such treatments, the Astral Body (Sukshma sharira) is then treated using Ayurvedic Acupuncture by working on astral levels such as nadis or chakras and the emotions. Once the astral and physical bodies have responded positively, the patient will have improved health and total body balance (both at physical and psychological levels).

Music Therapy effective in tackling neurological disorders

Music Therapy is slowly gaining ground in India, as apotential supplement for management of neurological disorders, across majorhospitals.

Dr. Krishnamoorthy Srinivas, Chairman-Emeritus, Institute ofNeurological Sciences, Voluntary Health Services, during his lecture on ‘Musicand Brain’, said that although the practice of healing with music may not bewell entrenched in India, as it is in the west, “we are surely on the way”.

He also endorsed the recommendation of Liver Sacks, theneurologist-author of the revered “Musicophilia’, about establishing MusicTherapy clinic at all major hospitals. Although the benefit of Music Therapy ismore real than illusory, it would be a myth to consider it as a panacea.

Pointing out to Western studies, and to his own research onneurology patients, he reinstated the clinical utility of music. A Harvardstudy demonstrated that children who turned into music did better in theiracademic performance, while a Chennai-based study led by Dr. Srinivas himself,revealed that exposure to music prompted a set of willed actions, such as theneed to be attentive, to perform specific tasks, and to exercise choice. The resultis true for any form of music, which the listener finds soothing enough.

Another finding as revealed by the UK-based Journal ofClinical Nursing, suggests that Music Therapy can reduce psychological stressamong pregnant women.

To prove this fact, researchers from the College of Nursingat Kaohsiung Medical University in Taiwan, randomly assigned 116 pregnant womento a music group, while 120 pregnant women were assigned to a control group. Atthe end of the study period, the music group showed considerable decrease intheir stress, anxiety and depression levels, within just two weeks, while thecontrol group showed only a much smaller reduction in stress, anxiety anddepression levels.

According to Prof. Chen, the study lead, pregnancy is aunique, stressful period for many expectant mothers, as they suffer anxiety anddepression due to the prolonged time period involved. Hence any interventionthat reduces these problems is to be welcomed.

“Our study shows that listening to suitable music is asimple, cost-effective and non-invasive way of reducing anxiety, stress anddepression during pregnancy,” he added.

The value of Music Therapy is slowly being realized inseveral clinical settings, and Complementary and Alternative Therapies areincreasingly being used, agrees Dr. Graeme D. Smith, Senior Lecturer,University of Edinburgh.

Several potential health benefits have been gained byclosely incorporating Complementary and alternative therapies into conventionalhealth care. Even the National Health Service is including several types ofComplementary/Alternative therapies that are part of its delivery of integratedservices.

“Patients have felt immense benefits even by incorporatinghalf an hour of relaxing music into their daily routine. In this world of sophisticatedmedical advances it feels nice to see that something as simple, andinexpensive, can be so effective,” says Prof. Chen.

Health wonders of black berry

The Jamun is a purple coloured tropical berry with a uniquetaste, colour and flavour. It is acidic and astringent in nature, with a sweettaste. The jamun also popularly known as jambolan, kala jamun, jambas, rajaman,neredu, naval, nerale, java plum, jamali, black plum and black berry. Theanthocyanin a plant pigment present in the fruit renders purple colour to thetongue.

The fruit has loads of minerals, with glucose and fructosebeing the major sugars found in the ripe fruit. It offers lesser calories, incomparison to other fruits. The seed of the fruit is rich in proteincarbohydrates and calcium. The fruit is also a fair source of iron, folate andvitamin-B, carotene, potassium, magnesium, antioxidants and fibre.

Health benefits:

Jamun is particularly used in treatment of diabetes.Extracts of the bark, leaves and seeds have been found to cause a markedprolonged decrease in blood sugar and glycouria. Studies have shown that jamunhas hypoglycaemic effects, wherein a 30percent reduction in blood sugar isreported. It has therefore been rightly named diabetic fighter, as recommendedby studies – Indian Journal of Pharmacology, Bhaba Atomic Research Centre andCentral Drug Research Institute. An effective remedy to control diabetes is tomix jamun seeds, bitter gourd (karela), Basil (tulsi) and Gurmar. This, whentaken regularly, controls diabetes in a better way.

Unani and Ayurvedic system use it for treatment of digestivedisorders, including diarrohea.

Studies have proven that Jamun could be protective in liverdisease, thereby playing a vital role in preventing liver damage.

The Jamun fruit extract, due to the presence of bioactivephytochemicals including polyphenols has shown to have an anti-cancerpotential. The fruit consumption is also believed to have benefits duringchemotherapy and radiation.

The polyphenolic compounds in the fruit have great healthbenefits including prevention of several chronic diseases like heart disease,cancer, ageing, diabetes and arthritis.

The anti-bacterial property in the leaves of the jamun treemakes it an ideal medicine for strengthening of teeth and gums.

The bark of the jamun tree is used for urinary disorders,de-worming, and to formulate herbal medicines by traditional healers.

Extracts from the bark of the tree also has moderate levelof antibiotic activity, and high astringent properties.

The bark and leaves of the tree are used in controlling highblood pressure.

Many of you might have tasted this mouth-watering treat, orat least have seen it or heard about it. Guava is very common in Asiancountries. It is a good looking pear shaped or round shaped seasonal fruit,light green or yellow or maroon in color from outside when ripe, with white ormaroon flesh and lots of small hard seeds enveloping very soft and sweet pulp.It is eaten raw (ripe or semi-ripe) or in form of jams and jellies. Thisattractive fruit is a real storehouse of nutrients. If it is “An apple a daykeeps the doctor away” in Europe and Americas, it must be “A few guavas in theseason keeps the doctor away for the whole year” in the Indian Subcontinent andplaces where guavas grow. Its scientific name is Psidium Guajava.

Let me share some of its brilliant health benefits with you.

Diarrhea &Dysentery: Guava is very rich in astringents (compounds those make yourgums feel tighter and fresh after you chew guava leaves or eat a raw guava oruse some toothpaste) which binds up loose bowels in diarrhea. These astringentsare alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties,thus help cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extramucus from the intestines. Further, other nutrients in guava, such asvitamin-C, Carotenoids and potassium strengthens and tones up the digestivesystem and disinfect it. Guava is also beneficial in gastroenteritis due toreasons stated above.

Constipation:Guava is one of the riches sources of dietary fiber. Its seeds, if ingested wholeor chewed, serve as excellent laxatives. These two properties of guava helpforming bowels, retaining water and clean your intestines and excretory systemthoroughly. It is said that single constipation can lead to seventy two typesof ailments. It is absolutely true. Every way to your total health goes throughproper digestion and more importantly, proper excretion. Guava ensures both ofthese.

Cough & Cold:Juice of raw and immature guavas or decoction of guava-leaves is very helpfulin giving relief in cough and cold by loosening cough, reducing mucus,disinfecting the respiratory tract, throat and lungs and inhibiting microbialactivity due to its astringent properties. Guava is one of richest in vitamin-Cand iron which are proven to be preventive against cold and viral infections.In some areas in India, roasted ripe guava is used as a remedy against extremecases of cough and cold and congestion.

Skin Care: Guavascan help improve your skin texture and avoid skin problems more than the bestof beauty creams or skin toner gels can do. This is chiefly due to theabundance of astringents in its fruits (more in immature ones) and in leaves.You can benefit from it either by eating the fruits (this help tighten yourmuscles apart from your skin) or by washing your skin with the decoction of itsimmature fruits and leaves. It will tone up and tighten the loosened skin. Inaddition to the astringents, guava is very-very rich in vitamin-A, B, C andpotassium which are very good anti oxidants and detoxifiers and keep your skinglowing and free from aging, wrinkles and other disorders.

High Blood Pressure:Guava helps reduce cholesterol in blood and prevents it from thickening,thereby maintaining fluidity of blood and reducing blood pressure. Studies haveshown that food stuffs which lack fiber (such a refined flour) add to bloodpressure, due to quick conversion to sugar. Guava, being very rich in fiber andhypoglycemic in nature, helps reduce blood pressure.

Weight Loss:Guava is very helpful for those who want to lose weight without compromisingwith their intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber. Guava, being very high inroughage and very rich in vitamins, proteins and minerals, but with nocholesterol and less digestible carbohydrates, is very filling and satisfiesappetite very easily. Just have a medium sized guava in the lunch and you willnot feel hungry till night. But ironically, it helps gaining weight in lean andthin people. This is probably due to its richness in nutrients, which keepsyour metabolism right helping proper absorption of nutrients.

Scurvy: Guava canoutdo many other fruits, including orange and other citrus fruits, when itcomes to concentration of vitamin-C, whose deficiency causes scurvy and whichis the only remedy to it. It contains five times the vitamin-C in oranges.

Other Benefits:Where to begin? Shall I start with the fact that guava helps control diabetes,protects prostrate, its Lypocene reduces the risk of cancer, the juice of theleaves cures toothache, swollen gums & oral ulcers, heals wounds whenapplied externally, convulsions, epilepsy, bacterial infections and so on andso forth.

Headache Remedies

Headache Symptoms

Following are the signs that indicate the presence of this ailment:

• Headache can be mild, moderate or severe pain that affects the whole head, a part the head, forehead or the eyes.

• Nausea

• Difficulty in sleeping

• Loss of appetite

• Feeling of uneasiness

Headache Causes

According to Ayurveda, there are eleven types of headaches caused due to aggravation of three different doshas. Headaches are also caused by:

• sinusitis

• Hypertension

• Constipation

• Over work

• Mental stress

• Indigestion

• Acidity

• Sleeplessness

• Fever

• It may also be present as a symptom of some disease

• Excessive consumption of tea, coffee, aspirin or nicotine is also known to contribute to headache

• Nervous weakness

• Anemia

• Deficiency of oxygen in the blood

• Sitting too close to the television

• Reading with insufficient light

• Reading in a moving train or car

Headache Remedies

• Take clove, cinnamon and almond in equal quantities (around 1 teaspoon each) and grind together with a little water to make a paste. Apply paste on the forehead. A paste made of sandalwood powder can also be applied on the forehead.

• Mix a quarter teaspoon of clove powder in one teaspoon of cinnamon oil. Apply mixture to the location of pain.

• Take a few drops of ghee (clarified butter) on your palm. Mix 3 or 4 pieces of saffron in it, and rub it for two minutes. The saffron does not dissolve in the ghee, but its qualities are absorbed. Remove saffron and put two drops of this ghee in each nostril. · Dosage: Follow procedure twice a day.

• Mix 1 tablespoon of milk and half teaspoon of ginger powder and put one or Dosage; two drops in each nostril twice a day.

• Wrap a wet cloth around the neck.

• Oil massage on the scalp also relieves tension and headache. Sesame oil, almond oil, mustard oil or ghee (clarified butter) can be used for massage.

• Heat 1 teaspoon of almond oil. When it cools down, put two drops in each nostril.

Dos and don'ts

• Simple cooked vegetables without oil, vegetable juices and soup, fruits like apple, mango, grapes and fruit juices should be taken in ample quantities. Rice, salad and buttermilk are also good.

• Some sweets and milk products can be taken moderately with small quantities of nuts.

• Hot cow milk is very good to drink.

• Avoid fried foods, meat, sour and spicy foods and foods

• Yogurt should be avoided, especially at night.

• Adequate rest should be taken and exposure to cold, heat and rain should be avoided.

• The natural urges (sneezing, passing stool and urine, hunger, thirst, sleep, breathing and yawning etc.) should not be suppressed.

• The patient should also try to keep the mind free from anxiety, anger, mental tension and worry.

ayurvedic foot care

In the complete human body feet are the mist strained andworked out part, but inspite of this are the most neglected one also. Lack ofproper care for feet result in many problems like corns and bunions, cracks,infections and ingrown nails.

Massaging the feet each night with oil is relaxing and keepsthem soft and supple. In winter warm oil can be used with sesame or mustardoil. In summer coconut oil provides acooling effect.

Corns

If the shoes are to tight, pinch or do not fit properlycorns appear due to the pressure put on the bony areas of the foot and alsointerfere with the circulation of blood ultimately leading to corns.

Home Remedies Corns

• The sap from a marigold stem, milky juice from green figsor papaya juice are all good remedies. Apply to the affected area frequently.

• A slice of lemon can be placed on the corn and bandaged inplace overnight.

Crack Heels

Walking barefoot on rough surfaces or excessive exposure ofbare feet to the sun, wind or water causes cracks on the heels and soles apartform the aggravation of Pitta and Vata doshas, which cause dryness androughness of the feet.

Home Remedies CrackHeels

• Take about three tablespoons of bees wax and mix oneteaspoonful sesame oil in it. Warm it a little and apply on the affected areas.

• Use warm sesame oil or ghee on the affected areas.

• Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon of mango tree sap and 1tablespoon water to the cracked skin.

Coffee – a cupful of protection from Diabetes

Regular coffee drinkers are less likely to develop diabetes,suggest a study from University of Minnesota.The researchers who compared dataof more than 28000 post-menopausal women, noticed that those who consumed 2 to3 cups of coffee per day, through most of

their lives, were 22 percent at lower risk to develop thedisease than women who abstained from coffee drinking.The experts explain thatcertain minerals and compounds present in coffee beans may help enhance thesensitivity of insulin receptors and help the body process

blood sugar in a more efficient manner, lowering risk ofdiabetes by 22 percent, when consuming 2 to 3 cups everyday.Researchersconclude that coffee does prevent the onset of Diabetes, particularly in caseof Diabetes Type 2, acting as protective shield. Certain compounds present incoffee help in metabolizing sugar. However, decaffeinated coffee is what oneshould take. Moreover coffee should be taken only in moderation. Anything inexcess could prove counter-productive. For instance, excess coffee intake couldlead to headaches, poor concentration, nervousness, and irritability. Taking in

, helps one to have the advantage of preventingDiabetes.

Study conducted by Smith and colleagues, University ofCalifornia, San Diego, in her article titled ‘Coffee may protect againstdiabetes’ proves that past and current coffee drinkers are 60 percent lessprone towards developing Diabetes. This reduction was also noticed amongparticipants with impaired glucose tolerance levels.

Scientists in Vrije University, Amsterdam, reveal thatcomponents in coffee help body metabolize sugar, and hence reduce risk ofDiabetes.However, although recent research trends claim that coffee helpsprevent onset of Diabets, there are few who claim otherwise. But efforts are onto highlight the

benefits of caffeine, particularly so, in case of Diabetics.

Top ten comfort bites to lift up your health and spirits

The next time when you feel hungry between meals, here arefew snacking options that you could consider, without having to fear aboutpiling up those kilos. These mood foods are believed to both pep us up, and dowonders to our general health, and are therefore considered healthy snackingoptions.

Green Vegetables: Green veggies have a lot to offer in terms of health benefits. Broccoli ispacked with Vitamin B and folic acid. It offers relief from stress, enhances moodwith regard to anxiety, panic, depression and other emotional disorders. Greenveggies are rich in potassium which helps immensely in calming one’s nerves whenstressed. A diet rich in green veggies also helps the body feel lighter. Thebest way of consuming green veggies as snacking option is to make it a part ofyour salad.

Oranges: Oranges,apart from being a rich source of vitamin C, also contain anti-oxidants inplenty, thereby preventing formation of free radials causing cell damage. Astressed body releases more free radicals. The vitamin C content in orangesprotects the body from these harmful effects. Vitamin C is also a proven naturalimmune system booster.

Asparagus:Asparagus is a rich source of folic acid and contain magnesium, known for theirmood-lightening properties. Being low on calories, it has zero fat and cholesterol.The stalks of baby asparagus are tender, crunch and tasty, which makes them an all-timeeasy and perfect snack.

Apricots:Apricots contain plenty of Vitamin A, and helps prevent formation of freeradicals. Further, they are rich in fibre, and therefore aids digestion andrelieve constipation. They are arich source of natural sugars, therefore a handful of dried apricots are boundto keep you happy and healthy, while also satisfying your sweet cravings.

Sweet Potatoes:Sweet potatoes help bring down stress levels, as they satisfy the body’scraving for sweets and carbohydrates. They are rich in beta-carotene, fibre, andvitamins. They help the body to process carbohydrates gradually, releasing thesugar slowly, thereby satisfying your appetite for quite sometime. Why not try eatingroasted, boiled, or mashed sweet potatoes, rather than indulging in richcheesecakes and pastries?

Yogurt: Apartfrom being a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B12, yogurt alsocontains many useful bacteria. It aids digestion and offers relief from mildstomach infections, if any. For those of you with a sweet tooth, try adding aspoon of honey to yogurt, it will satisfy your sweet craving, and will boostyour immune system and keep you healthy.

Fish: It is arich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and Vitamin B12, an important componentfor producing serotonin, also known as the happy hormone. A good reason to eatfish is the plenty of essential Omega-3 fatty acids that it offers, as ourbodies are incapable of producing sufficient amounts of them.

Nuts: Severalnuts like walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts are packed with nutrients andvitamins. The almonds are known to contain serotonin, Vitamin E, Vitamin B2(Riboflavin) and anti-oxidants that improve the immune system. These crunchnuts are also known to be effective stress-busters.

Dark Chocolate:Contrary to the common belief, dark chocolates are loaded with chemicals thatimprove moods, similar to those found in marijuana, although in smallerquantities. Dark chocolates are particularly good, as they contain higher percentageof cocoa and less sugar, than regular milk chocolates. The anti-oxidants andflavonoids present in them, help reduce blood clot formation, heart diseasesand cancer. However, take care to eat only in moderation.

ater: Although,water is not considered a food item or snack, it helps in smooth functioning ofthe body. Drinking plenty of it is essential in maintaining healthy skin, hairand eyes. Even a simple issue such as insufficient water intake could be theunderlying cause for your stress issues. Also note that drinking water can temporarilymake you feel full, and keeps you away from unhealthy snacking.

What’s so much the fuss about this Water Melon? Isn’t itnothing more than a ball full of water? Okay! I know there cannot be a morerefreshing thing than a big, chilled wedge of water melon in tropical summersand it sports a stylish scientific name of Citrullus Lanatus. But then thereare others too. So, what’s special about it? I am afraid, there are lots ofthem.

How about having arefreshing glimpse of them? Given below are some health benefits of watermelon:

Kidney Disorders:Water Melon contains a lot of potassium, which is very helpful in cleaning orwashing off the toxic depositions in the kidneys. Moreover, it is helpful inreducing concentration of uric acid in the blood, thereby reducing the chancesof kidney damages and formation of renal calculi in it. Added to these, beinghigh in water content, it induces frequent urinating, which is again helpfulfor cleaning of kidneys. Also, the anti oxidants present in ensure good healthof kidneys for a long.

High Blood Pressure:A good amount of Potassium and magnesium, present in water melons, are verygood in bringing down the blood pressure. The carotenoids present in themprevent hardening of walls of arteries and veins, thereby helping reduce bloodpressure.

Prevent Heat Stroke:Water melon is effective in reducing your body temperature and blood pressure.Many people in the tropical regions eat the fruit daily in the afternoon duringsummers to protect themselves from heat stroke. In India, you will find thefruit being sold by vendors in almost every street during summers.

Diabetes:Diabetes patients, who are supposed to have low energy and low sugar diet,often complaint about starving since they don’t get to eat their staple diet totheir full, giving them a feeling of keeping half fed. Water Melons can be agood supplement for them. In spite of being sweet in taste, a thick wedge willgive you very few calories, since ninety nine percent of its total weight iscomposed of water and roughage. Moreover, the various vitamins and mineralssuch as potassium and magnesium help in proper functioning of insulin in thebody, thus lowering the blood sugar level. Arginine, another component found inwater melons, is very effective in enhancing impact of insulin on sugar.Diabetes patients can also have curries, steaks, salads made from water melonrinds which are even lower in sugar.

Heart Care:Lypocene, a carotenoid found in abundance in water melon, improves cardiacfunctions. Beta carotene, known for its remarkable anti oxidant and anti agingproperties, also keeps you young at the heart and prevents age related cardiacproblems. The roughage in water melon and its very low energy, with help fromvitamin-C, Carotenoids and potassium (potassium cuts the risk of a heartattack), help reduce cholesterol and keep your heart safe.

Macular Degeneration:Leave your worry of eyes on that beta carotene, that vitamin-C and those Luteinand Zeaxanthin. They will ensure protection of your eyes from maculardegeneration. They are experts in that. These anti oxidants will protect youreyes from other age related ailments such as drying up of eyes and opticalnerves, glaucoma etc.

Other Benefits:Lypocene is found to be effective in preventing cancer, prostrate growth andrepair damaged tissues. Water melon seeds are rich in good fats and proteins.Water melons also contain phytonutrients which have very good effect on thehealth and proper functioning of internal organs, eyes, secretion system etc.

Home Remedies for Arthritis

Home remedies for arthritis include garlic, potato juice,rice bag, hot water bath, daily massage, etc. Arthritis has emerged as one ofthe main reasons of disability among the elder people. Initially, arthritiscommences with muscle and joint discomfort. There are different types ofarthritis like rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is causedwhen the joints are affected by the body’s immune system. The insufficient dietplays a vital role in causing arthritis which evidently hampers the body’sdynamism.

Arthritis is one of most common diseases from which, majorpopulation of the world is worst affected. The joints, muscles and cartilagesget swollen. The swelling leads to sever pain and discomfort. It is easy todiagnose arthritis. Its common symptoms are stiffness in joints, softnessaround the affected area and limited motion of the joints. Weak digestion,overeating, constipation and no physical activity are also few of the symptomsof arthritis. It is not just one problem but a complex disorder includinginnumerable ailments. The Arthritis Research Centre of Canada conducts researchon treatments of this disease.

Some of the potential symptoms of arthritis are:

Knee pain

Hand pain

Persistent joint pain

Swelling and stiffness

According to the Arthritis Research Institute of America,osteoarthritis often causes chronic pain and disability in elders. The regulartreatment for arthritis involves sacrifice of sedentary lifestyle, especiallyfor those who are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Some of the mildexercises which are also advised include swimming, water aerobics and walkingso that the body’s dynamism can be boosted. The treatment also focuses onlistening to the body and slowing down when pain from a particular body part increases.Over exertion is prevented and innumerable medications are prescribed toprevent arthritis.

Home remedies for arthritis includes garlic, potato juice,make a rice bag, hot water bath, no emotional stress, daily massage, nosaturated fats and intake of omega 3. Before you consult your doctor try thesehome remedies for arthritis. They may be beneficial. These home remedies areexplained below:

Garlic: Garlic iswell known to treat arthritis since ages. It assuages swelling and tenderness.There are numerous methods to consume garlic. Cook your food in garlic paste.If you can’t do that then take the garlic pills available with your localchemist. Or just sprinkle a bit of garlic over your food. Ingesting garlic isvery effective in treating the pain of arthritis.

Potato Juice:Take out the potato juice and consume it. It is an excellent way to treatarthritis. This has been well trusted since ages. Include potatoes in yourdaily diet to help reduce the pain of the arthritis.

Make a Rice Bag:Take a sock fill it with rice and tie its loose end. Heat this in microwave anduse it as a heating pad. This is an economical heating pad. It helps a greatdeal in reducing the swelling and tenderness. It alleviates the pain quickly.

Hot Water Bath:It is the most simple and easy way to ease your arthritis pain and effects.Simply take a hot water bath or sit in a hot water tub. To make it moreeffective add some vinegar to the water for an effective bath. Hot waterrelaxes the muscles and joints and eases the pain. Some may feel that coldwater even relaxes them. They can sit in a cold water tub.

No Emotional Stress:Emotional stress is one the main causes of arthritis. You must try and keepyour self stress free. Practice yoga and meditation daily. Start with a fiveminutes session. And gradually take it to twenty to thirty minutes. Fortreating arthritis, the mind should be relaxed. Thus, it’s very important toput a halt to the emotional stresses.

Daily Massage:Take a daily body and hair massage. These massages help you relax and sootheyour mind and body. Massage helps in regulating the blood circulation of thebody which makes the body relax. Also it soothes the joints pain.

No Saturated Fats:The intake of saturated fats should be minimal. A pure vegetarian diet can helpyou avoid all the saturated fats. The saturated fats are found mainly in theanimal products.

Take Omega3: Eat lot of fish like herring, sardines andsalmon. These fishes are rich in Omega 3, which is quite effective in treatingthe pain of arthritis and even the tenderness caused due to it.

Home Remedies for Allergies

Home remedies for allergy include honey, ginger, green tea,peppermint, chamomile, thyme, lime, oatmeal, apple cider vinegar, etc. Allergyis the most commonly found disease, but it can be prevented by following easypreventions on regular basis. Some basic precautions include avoiding physicalinteraction with plants, dust and animals. Always use clean and washed pillows,bed-sheets, etc. Air conditioners and air fresheners also help to keep the airgermfree and de-humidified. Different sources of allergies are deficiency ofnutrition, repetitive as well as monotonous diet and chemicals through whichpesticides or preservatives enter the food chain.

As many as 35 million Americans suffer from various forms ofallergies, as researched by American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. However, Immuno Labs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida considers this figure to bemuch higher.

Proper diet helps a lot in dealing with allergies. It formsthe basic healthy nutrition for your body and creates strong immunity to fightwith various allergic symptoms like coughs, cold, fever, itching and breathinginfections. Food or diet should never be monotonous. Maintain a rotational dietto ensure that you are getting all the nutrients and necessary elements to keepyourself strong, healthy and immune from allergies.

Home remedies take time to cure and prevent any disease. Ifthese are followed properly, one can stay healthier without suffering fromallergy.

Honey : In caseof honey, the local one is most beneficial. Consume honey with teas, breads orjust plain in little portion. Local honey makes your body resistant to fewtypes of pollens. Honey should never be cooked as it destructs the beneficialqualities of this natural product. Pure form of honey, specially the raw honeywhich hasn’t been heated or filtered, is the best for use against allergies.

Ginger: Take apiece of freshly peeled and cut ginger root. Add boiling hot water over it.Wait for 5-10 minutes. Honey can also be used to add sweetness to it. This isvery good as decongestant and antihistamine. It has a direct effect on theanti-inflammatory processes of the human body, as it plays a pivotal role indominating the platelet-activating factor.

Green Tea: Thecommonly used tea is active histamine. At least 1-2 cups a day with honey ishelpful. Japanese researchers have found a compound called MethylatedEpigallocatechin Gallate in green tea, which inhibits the cell receptorincluded in activating allergic responses. The researches are presentlyscrutinising the effect of the compound on rodents. Though, it has been foundthat this compound plays a vital role in fighting against watery eyes, sneezingand cough, which are the basic symptoms of allergies.

Peppermint Tea:Consumption of this tea helps in relieving congestion. If the weather is warm,you can make iced-tea with it. It tastes better and also cures cough and theproblem of sinus.

Chamomile Tea:Those who don't have any previous history of allergic responses against ragweedcan have 2-3 cups of chamomile, with addition of honey to prevent allergies.Chamomile tea is natural histamine.

Thyme: This is avariety of tea helpful in treating congestion. Thyme tea can be used in blockednoses, coughs and sinus infections. Consume a single cup daily. Do not takemore than that. Thyme can be used in cooking for beneficial purposes.

Lime Juice: Limejuice is the best home remedy for any type of allergy. But it should not betaken by anyone who has a previous history of suffering from allergy of citrusfruits. It is advisable to drink a glass of lukewarm water, mixed with honeyand lime juice for some months for fighting against allergy.

Oatmeal: If yousuffer from hives due to allergies oatmeal is really helpful. Add a cup ofboiling water to oatmeal measuring about one tablespoon. Keep aside for 30minutes. Strain and apply with cotton balls on the hives. Bug bites can also berelieved. You can refrigerate it to use it within some days. If you prefer touse it with bath water make it in a larger amount.

Apple cider vinegar: Ifyou are bitten by bugs or hives and suffering from itching, apple cider vinegaris very much helpful. Mix with little portion of water and apply on theaffected area with the help of a cotton ball. You can also use it in little quantity while bathing.

Mono Diet of Fruitsand Vegetables: In order to fight against allergies, it is advisable tostart with a mono diet consisting of apples, carrots and grapes. The patientshould keep on adding a different vegetable or a fruit after every week. It isnecessary to supplement the mono diet with some proteins in the third week. Itis necessary to avoid food, which is rich in alcohol, butter, cheese, chicken,fish, pickles etc.

Non-allergenic diet:Take fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, etc, which are non-allergenic innature. They will keep you healthy and fit and provide your body the strengthto fight with allergies.

Feel the fruit power on your skin

It is a known fact that fruits/fruit juices are excellent options not only for overall good health, but also for the skin. Earlier, spa treatments involved use of expensive imported creams, made of exotic ingredients. This trend is now changing, as the spa owners have now realized that fresh fruits can render an equally refreshing appeal, while also offering the relaxation that you well-deserve.

Several newly-opened skin spas in India, for instance, offers natural beauty fixes made out of fresh fruits and vegetables. Each part of your body is treated with different fruit/vegetables in various therapy rooms designed for the purpose.

For instance, a face dessert is made available with papaya being used as cleanser; mango mousse cream, honey and oat scrub; and avocado face pack. Spas are also offering other natural treatments such as clay treatments and acupressure massages.

A masseuse when speaking to a leading daily in India, said “Our skin is exposed to growing pollution levels our everyday. It is therefore better to stop feeding our skin on daily basis, with synthetics that come in a bottle”.

In fact, the spa owners are collecting fresh and natural ayurvedic ingredients during the right season, from the remotest corners in the country to provide the best Ayurvedic herbal spa. For instance, to make apricot body scrubs, the apricots are directly sourced from the farmers.

When you undergo a spa therapy, the therapists use fresh fruits like papaya, apple, banana and oatmeal, along with other special herbs, to make a body scrub. The kind of therapy you are offered will depend on the type of skin that you have.

For instance, those with normal skin are offered treatments with avocado, strawberry and papaya; those with dry skins are treated with banana, chickoo, unpasteurised full fat milk and honey; for oily skin it is a pack of lemon, orange, tomato, and tangerine, while mature skin is treat with banana, primrose, egg whites and crushed egg shells.

Fruit facials were done since ages. But, the noteworthy trend is that people are now more cautious when dabbing chemicals onto their skin, with majority of them now opting for alternate natural skin therapies, rather than blindly using chemicals that are harmful to the skin.

Apart from hydrating and rejuvenating the skin, the smell of fruits helps in de-stressing. Fruits are also cost-effective and natural. Mentioned below are few natural properties of fruits, based on which, you can choose what is appropriate for your skin condition.

Banana

Bananas are rich in Vitamins A, B, F and E, and contain potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and iodine, and works well as an anti-ageing agent. A fresh mashed banana facial can work wonders on your skin.

Banana anti-ageing face mask

To make a banana face mask, mash a banana, add about 2 tablespoons of fresh cream, 1 tablespoon each of organic honey and oat floor, rose hydrosol and bottled water. Blend well and apply on clean face, leave on for 30 minutes and rinse well with water.

Hydrosols (floral waters) are created while extracting essential oils, and are made using steam distillation. They have properties similar to that of related essential oils, although in less concentrated form. Being good toners, they are usually used as final cleansers/toners after cleansing.

Lemon

The high vitamin C content in lemon helps in keeping skin beautiful. The astringent properties of lime helps in lightening skin tone and reducing acne scars. The inside of a lemon peel can be rubbed on to the body to remove dark spots. A mix of lemon and honey acts as a natural bleach for skin.

Apple

Being a great anti-oxidant, apple helps prevent cell and tissue damage. The abundant levels of elastin and collagen present in apple helps in keeping skin youthful.

Exfoliating mask
A great exfoliating mask on your skin can be made with mashed apple, oatmeal, and rosewater.

Orange

Orange is another great fruit with anti-ageing properties. The abundant vitamin C in Orange helps improve skin texture and clears skin blemishes. Rub the inside of orange on your skin to tighten the skin. Oranges can be dried and powdered and used as natural scrub.

Orange-yogurt mask
Mix ¼ of orange juice and a teaspoon of plain yogurt. Apply on to face, and wash after five minutes. The yogurt helps in cleansing and nourishing your skin, while orange is full of vitamin C and AHAs.

Papaya

Papaya contains papain, a special enzyme capable of killing dead cells and curing skin impurities and is highly rich in anti-oxidants, Even just applying the flesh of papaya on the skin can do wonders. Papaya facials are much in demand during summer months, as it also helps in removing tan.

Papaya summer mask

Mash a slice of papaya, and blend it with 1tablespoon of sandalwood powder in it. Mix both ingredients and apply on face and leave it on for 20 minutes. Wash it off with water. Both papaya and sandalwood powder blend together to remove dead cells and give healthy skin.

Mango

Being rich in Vitamin A and anti-oxidants, the king of fruits has amazing effect on skin, as it fights ageing and restores skin elasticity and regenerates skin cells.Mango-Honey face mask
Mix 4 tablespoons of finely chopped mango pulp, 1 to 2 teaspoons honey and 1 tablespoon of almond oil and apply on clean face and neck. Leave the mask for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse well with lukewarm water. Honey helps in retaining moisture so that your skin feels fresh and hydrated. This mask is effective in removing skin impurities and treating acne.

Home remedies for asthma

Home remedies for asthma include deep breathing, Pranayam,Indian gooseberry, ginger, drumstick leaves, bitter gourd roots, safflower,etc. Asthma is basically a chronic condition, which involves the constrictionof the airways of the respiratory system. It is caused due to inflammation ordeposition of mucus in the inner linings of the air vessels. Asthma attacks aretriggered up when introduced with tobacco smoke, allergens, perfume, moist orwarm air, emotional stress or exercise. In response, the sensitive airwaysrespond in a very allergic manner. Till now, no concrete cure for asthma hasbeen discovered so far. But, it can definitely be controlled through varioushome remedies and medications, so that it doesn't jeopardize the patient’slife.

Asthma is a Greek word, which means breathing problem. It iscaused due to various allergens. It causes malfunctioning in respiration. Thepatient can stay healthy and normal in between two attacks. But then, theasthma attacks worsen at times and can cause life threatening consequences.Moreover, Asthma is a major and costly public health problem, as found byAsthma Clinical Research Centres network. The prominent symptoms of asthmaattacks are:

Decrease in the functioning of the lungs

Chronic cough

Interrupted talking

Breath shortness

Flaring of nostrils

Agitation

Hyperinflation

A feeling of tightness in the chest

Diagnosis of asthma is carried out through laboratory tests,chest x-rays, physical examination and careful measurement. Environment controlis the initial step, which has to be adopted for the regular treatment ofasthma. Asthmatics need to give necessary importance to the environment as theycannot escape it. Monitoring the functioning of the lungs is the next essentialstep. Later, medications are prescribed to the asthmatics. These medicationsare basically the bronchodilators and corticosteroids.

Asthma affects approximately 15 million Americans, nearly 5million of whom are under the age of 18, as concluded by the Palo Alto MedicalFoundation. Patients suffering from asthma feel more problems in exhaling thaninhaling. The allergic reactions are caused by weather, food, perfumes,medicines, drugs, dust and other irritants. The home remedies for asthma are asfollows:

Deep Breathing: deep breathing helps increase the amount ofoxygen intake by the lungs and thereby reduces the effect of congestion createdby asthma, Normally we follow shallow breathing, because of which a largeportion of the air remains in our lungs when we exhale. As a result, in thenext breath when we inhale air, less space is available for fresh air to comein and our lungs get less oxygen. On the other hand, during deep breathing, weevacuate our lungs while exhaling and good amount of air comes in the lungswhen we inhale air. There are different variations of deep breathing, the mostpopular being Pranayam..

Figs: Soak 3-4 dry figs after cleaning properly in warmwater overnight. Figs play a pivotal role in reducing the various symptoms ofasthma attacks. It also helps in curing the different symptoms associated withasthma.

Lemon: Dilute the juice of 1 lemon in 1 glass water. Drinkduring meals. Lemon kills the germs, which are present in the mucus underliningthe air vessels. It works as an antiseptic.

Indian Gooseberry: It is a medicinal tonic for curingasthma. Mix 5 grams of this in 1 tablespoon honey form to make a tonic. Take itevery morning. Within six months, the prominent symptoms will be resolved.

Roots of Bitter Gourd: Take a spoon of root paste and sameamount of tulsi juice or honey. Consume once for 1 month at night. It works asa beneficial antiseptic.

Garlic: Take 10 cloves and boil in 30ml milk. This is forthe patient suffering from early stage of asthma. You can drink hot ginger teawhich has 2 cloves minced in morning as well as evening.

Safflower: It is meant for bronchial asthma. Mix halfteaspoon powder of dry seeds of safflower with 1 tablespoon honey. Take 1-2times a day.

Ginger: Make an expectorant by mixing 1 teaspoon gingerjuice, 1 cup decoction of fenugreek and honey as per your taste. You can alsomake by mixing 1 tablespoon fenugreek seeds in 1 cup water. Drink twice a day.

Honey: Sip hot water mix with one teaspoon honey beforegoing to bed. It effectively reduces the accumulated mucous linings.

Hygiene: Maintain a proper hygiene. Sleep in a clean bed.Use separate towel, bed sheets, pillows and other items of daily use. Avoiddust, insects, pets, plants and strong smell of perfumes, flowers or chemicalsprays. Keep yourself clean, bath properly and avoid catching cold. You can usewarm water to bath, if you have a tendency to catch cold.

The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin which is claimed to help in dealing with viruses and bacteria causing diseases such as herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. It helps in fighting harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter pylori, and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia. As a result of these various health benefits of coconut oil, though its exact mechanism of action was unknown, it has been extensively used in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medicinal system. The Coconut Research Center has compiled various references on scientific research done on coconut oil.

Before we move on to the benefits of coconut oil in detail, let us understand its composition.

Composition of Coconut Oil:

Coconut oil consists of more than ninety percent of saturated fats (Don’t panic! First read to the last word. Your opinion may change), with traces of few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Virgin Coconut Oil is no different from this. Let us have a bit detailed study of this.

•The Saturated Fatty Acids: Most of them are Medium Chain Triglycerides, which are supposed to assimilate well. Lauric Acid is the chief contributor, with more than forty percent of the share, followed by Capric Acid, Caprylic Acid, Myristic Acid and Palmitic.

•The Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Linoleic Acid.

•The Monounsaturated Fatty Acids: Oleic Acid.

•The Poly-phenols: Gallic Acid, which is phenolic acid. These poly-phenols are supposed to be responsible for the fragrance and the taste of Coconut Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil is rich in these poly-phenols.

•Fatty Chlorides, Fatty Alcohol Sulphate and Fatty Alcohol Ether Sulphate, all of which are derivatives of Fatty Alcohols.

•Vitamin-E and Vitamin K and minerals such as Iron.

Hair Care:

Coconut oil is one of the best natural nutrition for hair. It helps in healthy growth of hair providing them a shiny complexion. Regularmassage of the head with coconut oil ensures that your scalp is free of dandruff, lice, and lice eggs, even if your scalp is dry. Coconut oil is extensively used in the Indian sub-continent for hair care. It is an excellent conditioner and helps in the re-growth of damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing damaged hair. It is therefore used as hair care oil and used in manufacturing various conditioners, and dandruff relief creams. Coconut oil is normally applied topically for hair care.

Skin Care:

Coconut oil is excellent massage oil for the skin as well. It acts as an effective moisturizer on all types of skins including dry skin. The benefit of coconut oil on the skin is comparable to that of mineral oil. Further, unlike mineral oil, there is no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin with the application of coconut oil. Coconut oil therefore is a safe solution for preventing dryness and flaking of skin. It also delays wrinkles, and sagging of skin which normally become prominent with age. Coconut oil also helps in treating various skin problems including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczemaand other skin infections. Therefore coconut oil forms the basic ingredient of various body careproducts such as soaps, lotions, creams, etc., used for skin care. Coconut oil also helps in preventing premature aging and degenerative diseases due to its antioxidant properties.

Heart Diseases:

There is a misconception spread among many people that coconut oil is not good for the heart. This is because it contains a large quantity of saturated fats. However, coconut oil is beneficial for the heart. It contains about 50% lauric acid, which helps in preventing various heart problems including high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. The saturated fats present in coconut oil are not harmful as it happens in case of other vegetables oils. It does not lead to increase in LDL levels. It also reduces the incidence of injury in arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis.

Weight Loss

Coconut oil is very useful in reducing weight. It contains short and medium-chain fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. It is also easy to digest and it helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems. Further, it increases the body metabolism by removing stress on pancreases, thereby burning out more energy and helping obese and overweight people reduce their weight. Hence, people living in tropical coastal areas, who eat coconut oil daily as their primary cooking oil, are normally not fat, obese or overweight.

Digestion

Internal use of coconut oil occurs primarily as cooking oil. Coconut oil helps in improving the digestive system and thus prevents various stomach and digestion related problems including irritable bowel syndrome. The saturated fats present in coconut oil have anti microbial properties and help in dealing with various bacteria, fungi, parasites, etc., that cause indigestion. Coconut oil also helps in absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

Immunity:

Coconut oil is also good for the immune system. It strengthens the immune system as it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid which have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin which is claimed to help in dealing with viruses and bacteria causing diseases such as herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. It helps in fighting harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and heliobacter pylori, and harmful protozoa such as giardia lamblia.

Healing and Infections

When applied on infections, it forms a chemical layer which protects the infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria and virus. Coconut oil is most effective on bruises as it speeds up the healing process by repairing damaged tissues.

Infections: Coconut oil is very effective against a variety of infections due to its antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. According to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes, SARS, etc. It also kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhea, etc. Coconut oil is also effective on fungi and yeast that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athlete’s, thrush, diaper rash, etc.

Other:

Liver: The presence of medium chain triglycerides and fatty acids helps in preventing liver diseases as they substances are easily converted into energy when they reach the liver, thus reducing work load on the liver and also preventing accumulation of fat.

Pancreatitis: Coconut oil is also believed to be useful in treating pancreatitis.

Stress Relief: Coconut oil is very soothing and hence it helps in removing stress. Applying coconut oil to the head followed with a gentle massage helps in removing mental fatigue.

Diabetes: Coconut oil helps in controlling blood sugar, and improves the secretion of insulin. It also helps in effective utilization of blood glucose, thereby preventing and treating diabetes.

Bones: As mentioned earlier, coconut oil improves the ability of our body to absorb important minerals. These include calciumand magnesium which are necessary for development of bones. Thus coconut oil is very useful to women who are prone to osteoporosis after middle age.

Dental Care: Calcium is an important element present in teeth. Since coconut oil facilitates absorption of calcium by the body, it helps in getting strong teeth. Coconut oil also stops tooth decay.

HIV and Cancer: It is believed that coconut oil plays an instrumental role in reducing viral susceptibility of HIV and cancerpatients. Preliminary research has shown indications of the effect of coconut oil on reducing the viral load of HIV patients (Reference).

Finally, coconut oil is often preferred by athletes and body builders and by those who are dieting. The reason behind this being that coconut oil contains lesser calories than other oils, its fat content is easily converted into energy and it does not lead to accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. Coconut oil helps in boosting energy and endurance, and enhances the performance of athletes.

Ayurveda and Body Building

Most of the men wish to have strong muscles and shapely bodies and they want to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger- the pumping iron. In order to have the macho look, men are resorting to many unhealthy practices and food supplements, resulting in the permanent loss of health.

Ayurveda for body building

most of you might never thought of such a possibility, while resorting to artificial protein supplement to improve your muscles. Ayurveda-the natural healing system of India has much to speak about keeping body fit and healthy.

Benefits of Ayurveda

Following the natural Ayurveda way relives fatigue associated with the exercise regimen

Provides healthy and fit body in long run

Ayurvedic health supplements are natural and cause no side effects. Since, the side effects of artificial protein supplements are yet to be known

Ayurveda improves the resistance of the body

Ayurveda and Exercise Regimen

Ayurveda sees regular exercise as a mean to create radiant health, vibrant body and fitness. At the same time exercise should be balanced and limited. The duration and type of exercise varies according to the individuals.

Researchers have found that over exercise does harm the body and would result in the chronic fatigue syndrome. It would create imbalance in the body and would result in undesired results.

Ayurveda prescribes exercise that would not burn more than 50% of your energy. The amount of exercise also depends upon the factors like age, gender, season and body type.

Ashwagandha-Ayurvedic herb for body building

Ashwagandha or Indian ginseng has many medicinal qualities. It contains steroidal alkaloids and steroidal lactones and used as an adaptogen as it enhances endurance and rejuvenates the body. The unique medicinal qualities of Ashwagandha which make it suitable supplement for body builders are listed below:

Enhances the endurance and rejuvenates the body

Increases the body energy level

Increases the immunity

Contains anti-inflammatory properties

Increases appetite

So, don’t go for artificial health supplements and steroids, use Ayurvedic herbal products and have that macho look!

Consult Ayurvedic practitioner for expert advice.

Achieve Your Weight Loss Goals

The most common problem of today seems to be that of obesity. You search thenet, buy books, read magazines, watch health based TV shows, just to knowhow to lose weight. You know you should drink a lots of water, eat smallermeals five times a day, include more of fruits and vegetables in your diet,cut back on carbohydrates and sweets, take herbal products to increase your metabolism, do exercises- walking, running, swimming, cycling- anything that will melt your fats down. However, when itcomes to actually losing your weight, nothing seems to do wonders.

Ifanyhow, you stick to your schedule and complete all your targets, you loseweight but as soon as you come out of your strict “starving”schedule to a mild “starving” schedule, you again put on weight.Puzzled about what is going wrong? Lets try to figure out some “not socommon” facts about weight loss that might help you remain slim on aconsistent basis. Be aware that these are not substitutes of your weightloss program, but enhancer of the same!

Now Use Internet Differently to Lose Weight!
Enough searching for tips to lose weight, use Internet and its manycreative and unique resources to help you lose weight.

Bet you'll lose weight: Find out websites that help you takechallenges. Bet on them, whether you can lose weight and get in shape. Whenyour money's at stake, you will definitely do it! Won't you? Some sites alsolet bettors challenge each other. Bet that you'll beat someone else atachieving your goal weight. These sites assist you track each participant'sprogress and reward you for hitting your goals.

Tweet what you eat: The website with the same name offers a simplefood diary that lets you track your food and weight on the Web or yourmobile using Twitter. If you don't include calories as part of the tweet,the site fills them in for you using its food calorie database. It alsogives daily reminders if you forget to update your diary. Such many otherwebsites help you watch what you're eating.

Make online weight-loss friends: A University of Vermont study saysthat online weight-loss buddies help you keep weight off. The volunteers inthe research program who were assigned to an Internet-based weightmaintenance program sustained their weight loss better than those who usedface-to-face support groups.

Keep Your Taste Buds Satisfied!
Baked, boiled food; raw fruits and vegetables- all said and done for losingweight- you also need to keep your taste buds alive and satisfied! Now youknow the reason for those hunger pangs when you forget all your weight lossplans and binge on that junk food!

Take a weekly “high calorie – low calorie” treat: Nowwhat is this “high calorie – low calorie” treat? These foodsdon't give the feeling of deprivation and they are categorized as highcalorie food but down in the chart ( lesser calories than the more highercalorie foods). For example- just 83 calories in 85 grams of Lobster, just60 calories in 12 large Shrimp, just 66 calories in 57 grams of smokedsalmon and just 8 calories in one tablespoon of whipped cream that can bedropped over a bowl of fresh fruit for dessert. You can even take a spoonfulof ice cream on this bowl of fruits or a little cheese with a lots of saladbut remember- only once in a week!

Use smaller and dark colored plates: Colors have impact on appetitetoo. Dark blue kills your appetite. So go for such plates to eat in.Remember not to buy red, orange and yellow ones, they will just throw yourappetite out of control- just think of those big fast food chains and thecolors of their logos all in red- were they so foolish, not to researchbefore finalizing their logo colors? Anyway, when you go for your weeklytreat to these restaurants, remember to order half of your food to be packedeven before it is served. This way you'll get two treats- one for themorning breakfast! Anyway, only half of these high calorie food is enough tofeed you for once.

Watch Your Drinks!
Its good that you drink a lots of water but what about other drinks youconsume? Do you keep watch on them along with what you eat? Probably no! Younever thought that drinks too can contribute calories that you are soconfidently losing by eating low calorie foods.

Carbonated drinks, add to your calories: For every 20 ounces of yourfavorite cola, you are taking in 250 calories. Several glasses a day andabout 1000 liquid calories enter your body. Simple soda too can do what acola can do to your weight loss program- ruin it!

Diet drinks, not safe either: Now you might be thinking of going fordiet colas or soda instead of colas. A study published in a medical journalsaid (way back in 1980s when the safety issue of artificial sweeteners wasbeing debated) that artificial sweeteners cause increase in appetite. Morerecently, some health studies too have suggested that they actually increasecravings for sweet foods.

Relax Yourself and Reduce Weight!
And as the saying goes “old is gold,” with adopting all the newways to lose weight, also listen to ayurveda which suggests massage as anexcellent way to reduce weight. It increases metabolism and helps fatabsorption but only when done by expert hands. So find some goodAyurveda treatment Centers and relax yourself while they help you reduce yourweight!

Ways to Fight Obesity with Ayurveda

Definition of Obesity

Excess amount of body fat is Obesity.

Excess weight of muscles, bone, fat and water in the body (like body builders and athletes) is Overweight.

Fighting Obesity

Over weighted persons are at increased health risk than normal persons. They are more prone to chronic diseases like heart diseases, type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and few types of cancers.

Women have more body fat than men. In women usually the fat accumulates around hips giving them a pear shape. In men it accumulates around belly giving them an apple shape. The obesity related problems start when fat accumulates around waist.

In ayurveda the distribution of fat is described as follows.

Medastu sarvabhutaanamudarenvasthi thishtathi |
Ata evodare vriddhihi prayo medaswino bhavet ||
Fat gets deposited in and around belly in all living beings. It is also present in bone. Hence when a person becomes obese his stomach bulges out.

And also the characters of an obese person are described as

"Medo mamsa ativriddhatvaachalasphigudarastanaha"

Which means the hips, belly and breasts of an obese person sag and sagged parts flap as that person moves. An obese person will not be active.

Causes of Obesity

When a person consumes more calories than he burns then the excess calories get stored in the form of fat causing obesity.
Genetic factors-Obesity tends to run in families. If parents are fat then the offspring also show a tendency to accumulate fat. Even the diet and lifestyle habits which are practiced in family also contribute to obesity.

Environment

- A person's eating habits and the level of physical activities a person has also contribute for excess deposition of fat. When a person eats food containing more calories and has a sedentary work then the calories consumed are more than calories burnt. The excess amount calories are stored as fat.

Binge eating disorder

Psychological disturbances

There is a tendency to over eat in response to negative emotions like boredom, sadness or anger. This leads to obesity.

Binge eating disorder.

Diseases and conditions like Hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, Depression, and certain neurological problems lead to overeating which in turn leads to accumulation of fat.

Medicines such as steroids and some antidepressant may cause weight gain.

Causes of obesity according to Ayurveda

The causes of obesity are very clearly explained in ayurveda. The following reasons which are mentioned in ayurveda increase the deposition of fat.

Shleshmala Ahara Vihara : The diet and life styles which increase Kapha

Madhura Annaha : Consuming sweetened foods .

Health risks due to Obesity

Obesity leads to the following problems.

- Type-2 diabetes

- Heart disease.

- High Blood pressure

- Stroke

- Few types of Cancers

- Gall stones

- Liver diseases

- Ostio Arthritis

- Gout

- Infertility

- Irregular menstruation in women.

According to Ayurveda the obese persons are more prone to the following diseases.

- Diabetes.

- Kidney related problems.

- Hepatitis.

- Low Libido

- Low energy levels.

- Skin problems.

- Fistula

- Piles.

- Filariasis . etc

Tips to reduce Obesity

Determine with the help of your physician how much weight has to be reduced.

Set several short term realistic goals .

Reward yourself each time you make progress (Not food items)

Even small weight losses have shown to be beneficial.

Make gradual changes in eating habits.

You will lose weight when you burn more calories than you consume.

Hence eating less and being more active help in losing weight
.
Sound eating habits keep you out of putting on weight.

Stay motivated to lose weight.

Slow weight loss is the safest and most effective. ( one to one and half pound per week).

Gradual weight loss, promote long term loss of body fat.

A person who is moderately active needs daily, 33 calories per kg of body weight to maintain his weight .

Reducing calories intake by 300 per day and increasing the physical activity to burn 200 calories per day results in weight loss of 400 Gms per week.

To satisfy basic nutritional needs eat a variety of foods every day.

Choose from each of the five food groups milk, meat, fruit, vegetable and cereals. Balanced food plans encourage making wise choices about everyday food choices. This type of diet helps to stay at your proper weight for life.

Allow for an occasional treat.

Evaluate your eating pattern.

Try to cut down on foods high in fats and sugar.

Most successful weight -loss plans stress on reduction in both calories and the amount of fat eaten

Physical activity:

Determine the type of physical activity that suits your life style.
Regular aerobic exercise like brisk walking, jogging or swimming, is a key factor in achieving permanent weight loss and improving health
Health experts recommend exercising 30 minutes or more on all, days of the week for maximum benefits. The exercises should be moderately vigorous to be most effective but not exhausting.

Incorporate few simple measures to burn calories effectively. Like- taking an after dinner walk, using stairs instead of escalators or elevators, parking the car farther away to have a longer walk etc.

Exercises also improve sense of well being ,decreases stress and decreases appetite in some.

Ayurvedic tips to reduce Obesity

Exercise to Fight Obesity

Numerous tips to reduce obesity have been mentioned in ayurveda. The following ayurvedic tips help you to reduce the obesity.

Very good exercises. Exercises like brisk walking, jogging, playing out door games etc help to reduce weight.

Physical and mental exertion. Exerting physically like doing house hold works, walking to distant places to bring groceries, vegetables etc, walking long distances to bring the child back from school, walking to working place, climbing stairs etc are types of physical exertion. Exerting physically as much as you can help to burn more calories.

Mental exertion like worrying or involving in finding solutions to problems also restrict food consumption in some and there by reduces the intake of calories .

Having sex frequently is also a good physical exertion.

Consumption of honey. This is advisable for non diabetic patients. Consuming 2 tea spoon of honey with a glass of herbal tea which includes weight reducing herbs help a lot in weight reduction. Honey along with these herbs scrapes and dissolves the Kapha and medha (body fat).

Sleeping for less hours. Avoiding sleeping in afternoons help to increase the burning of calories. This avoids slowing of basal metabolic rate.

Avoiding the food and beverages which increase kapha and medha. The foods which increase kapha and medha are sweets, sweetened drinks , large quantities of carbohydrates and oily food.

Consuming wheat products than rice products help to reduce obesity.
Using Green gram and horse gram help in reduction of kapha and medha.

Natural Dry Skin Treatment

Dry skin makes the whole appearance of a person dull. The lack ofglowing skin not only is a hindrance in getting overall beauty but alsoleads to various skin problems like itchy skin, dry skin spots and patches,skin rashes and ultimately fast aging of skin due to wrinkles. Dry skinconditions are due to the inability of skin to retain moisture. There aremany natural dry skin treatments that can change dry skin from luster lessskin to rejuvenated healthy skin. However, before knowing the various homeremedies and herbs for dry skin, it seems right to know the Ayurvedic dryskin concept.

Ayurvedic Dry Skin Concept

According to Ayurveda, dry skin is theresult of Vata Dosha or Vata vitiation. When vata dosha rises in a body, itleads to reduced kapha and makes body and facial skin dry and wrinkled.Kapha is the element responsible for keeping skin soft and smooth. Dry skinproblem aggravates due environment and weather conditions also. Most of thepeople experience excessively dry skin in winters when the dry and coldweather does not let the skin remain moist enough. However, dry skinproblems are not absolutely absent in summers when it is too hot and dry.Skin getting dry in summers is due to pitta vitiation and not due to vatavitiation. Thus, Ayurvedic dry skin concept lists some of the main causes ofdry skin as under.

Understanding the causes of dry skin makes one able to avoid them so thatthe natural dry skin treatments in the form of home remedies and herbs fordry skin can prove most beneficial to them.

Home Remedies for Dry Skin

Natural dry skin treatments need somelifestyle changes related to the use of beauty cosmetics, drink and foodhabits, as well as certain home remedies with the help of day to dayingredients found at home and certain specific herbs for dry skin treatment.

Lifestyle Changes for Dry Skin Treatment

• Drink enough water each day. You should drink at least 8-10 glassesof water daily.

• Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Better if they have morewater content like cucumber, tomatoes, watermelon, orange. Have plentyof nuts, especially almonds and walnuts.

• Get enough sleep. Six to eight hours sleep at night help restoreoxygen level of blood responsible for renewal of body cells essentialfor keeping the young looks of skin rejuvenated.

• Avoid hot showers. Hot water robs the skin of its natural oils thatkeep skin moist. In winters, make the bathing water only mildly warm ifyou can't have bath with cold water.

• Never go to bed with make up on. Wash all the applied cosmetics withclean water and if necessary with mild soap having moisturizer. Thenapply some moisturizing cream. Natural, home made or herbal dry skincreams without chemicals are best for skin.

Home Made Dry Skin Lotions, Creams, Facials, Masks

• Mix equal quantities of glycerin and rose water. Store thisexcellent dry skin lotion in a clean bottle and apply it on dry facialskin or skin of hands and feet whenever required. It is best to beapplied after having bath for those who suffer from excessive dry skin.Always shake the bottle before use as glycerin settles down at thebottom of bottle (Mix lemon juice to this mixture if you have a mixedtype of skin having combination of oily and dry skin).

• Mix equal quantities of petroleum jelly and glycerin and apply it onyour dry skin of face and body and keep it overnight.

• Mix equal quantities of petroleum jelly, vitamin E oil and glycerin.Apply for half an hour over face and body before taking shower.

• Take plain water and glycerin in the ratio of 10:1 and apply it onyour dry skin of hand and feet before going to the bed. This will giveyou soft skin in a few days.

• For having a special hand wash soap, mix glycerin with your liquidsoap and fill it in a bottle. Wash your hands with this soap to avoiddry skin on hand.

• Take 1 tsp each of egg yolk, rose water, lime juice, olive oil andorange juice and mix them thoroughly. Apply this smooth home made dryskin lotion to your face in the morning and wash it off after 20minutes.

• Make a face mask by mixing honey, egg, olive oil and rose water anduse it as dry skin facial mask.

• Get ayurvedic massage with herbal oil (made with vata balancingherbs). It is good to have daily body massage for people with dry skinbut if that is not possible, take such massages at least once a week.

• Lavender oil and sandalwood oil are also good for dry skin for theirsoothing and cool effects. A few drops of these oils can be used inbathing water.

• Mix glycerin, castor oil and rose water with 1 tbsp of 'malai' ormilk cream. Apply this mixture on face, neck and on hands before goingto bed. Wash it off with water in morning. This keeps dry skin hydratedduring the day.

• Mix ground almonds, honey and malai (milk cream) and apply themixture at least twice a week and keep it for half an hour.

Premature aging skin is one of the challenges beforethose who want to keep their skin youthful for longer periods of their lives.People, especially women, take many anti aging measures for skin care that theymay delay the process of aging which is represented by loosened skin.Ayurveda hasdeeply addressed this issue of aging skin. It says that premature aging of theskin is caused due to the aggravation of vata dosha, which naturally increaseswith age. Dryness of skin is a predominant trait of a Vata Dosha type Body constitution. Even in otherpeople, Vata causes dryness of the skin when it is vitiated due to seasonalinfluences. In fact, skin ages due to both- internal as well as externalfactors. Internal factors may be listed as inability of skin to retainmoisture, low levels of elastin production, lesser production of new skin cellsetc. External factors include lifestyle choices and surrounding environmentsuch as smoking, prolonged exposure to sun or extreme cold, poor diet, stress,lack of exercise etc. Here are some herbal remedies for skin. They are, infact, home remedies for skin tightening which include usage of common householdmaterials found in kitchen as well as some common Indian Herbs.

• Massageface with clarified butter (ghee), almond oil or coconut oil before going tobed. An oil massage is the best remedy for dry skin. Almond and coconut oil arebest Ayurvedic remedies for aging skin as they improve complexions, reduce finelines and wrinkles apart from curing crow's feet. For better absorption,anti-aging oil massages should be done at night.

• Ghee or clarified butter contains vitamin E, beta-carotene, and antioxidants that prevent cell damage and fight free radicals. Rub ghee all over your body to get it absorbed in the skin. The best way to get benefits of ghee is to include it in your daily diet. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of ghee while cooking vegetables, dals etc.

• There are many Benefit of Honey, one being its anti aging property. Take 1/2 tablespoon of honey and mix it with 1-2 tablespoon of rose water. Apply this mixture on face, neck, and other dry skin area. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes. Now wash it off with tepid water. Honey moisturizes and soothes dry skin. This mixture will clean your skin and tone it to give you a glowing complexion with wrinkle free skin.

• Take one teaspoon each of egg yolk and honey, and 1-2 teaspoon milk powder. Mix them well to make a smooth paste. Apply this paste on face, neck and other dry skin area. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and then wash with cold water.

• Mix one egg yolk, 1 teaspoon each of honey, olive oil and vitamin E oil to make an anti aging lotion to be used as moisturizing facial mask. Apply it to face and other areas and leave for 15 minutes. Then wash it off with lukewarm water.

• Avoid too much of sun exposure as it is one of the main causes of wrinkles. Use umbrella, scarves or any other protective cover when going out in sun.

• Get adequate sleep. Sleeping position is also important. Try to sleep on your back, as it prevents wrinkle formation. Sleeping on sides may cause wrinkles on chin and cheek and sleeping with face-down will result in furrowed brow.

• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. They have anti-oxidants that help fight damage caused by free radicals. They keep skin younger and radiant.

• Drink lots of water during the day to provide optimum supply of moisture to the skin.

• Do not over-wash your face. Washing face too often removes skin off its natural barrier oils and moisture that protect against wrinkles.

•Basil Herbs or Ocimum Sanctum (tulsi) has effective anti-aging and anti-oxidant properties. Follow the traditional Ayurvedic method of boiling fresh tulsi leaves and water until the water reduces to half. Then drink the resulting water. The other ayurvedic way of having basil leaves is to eat the crushed herb when it cools.

• Switch to green tea. Green tea has anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, and healing effects on skin which helps in skin rejuvenation.

Tips to Avoid Gas Problems- Bloating, Flatulence, Belching

Intestinal gas, more commonly called stomach gas, not only cause discomfort and gas pain but are embarrassing too. Although gas problems like bloating, burping and passing gas are natural, they might become serious and affect our daily activities. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid all the abdominal gas problems, the common ones being bloating, flatulence and belching. For intestinal gas treatment or for avoiding bloating, flatulence and belching, one must know the underlying causes for excessive intestinal gas formation and should adopt required dietary changes and other measures including medications if necessary.

How to Avoid Bloating?

Bloating makes a person feel that his/her abdomen has become enlarged. Dilation of abdomen can be caused by anything- fluid, tumors, enlarged organs, or fat within the abdomen. However, the most common cause of bloating is excessive formation of intestinal gas that could not be passed through belching or flatulence. Bloating often causes abdominal pain that can be mild and dull or sharp and intense gas pain. Bloating gas relief can be had by passing gas or having a bowel movement.

Avoid Foods that Cause Gas and Bloating

Where the cause of bloating is excessive intestinal gas formulation, it is usually due to fatty foods and some other foods that cause gas and bloating. To avoid bloating, reduce or totally avoid such foods depending upon the seriousness of bloating problem. Common foods that cause gas and bloating include Baked beans, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Carbonated drinks, Cauliflower, Chewing gum, Fruits like apples, peaches and pears, Hard candy, and Lettuce among others.

How to Avoid Flatulence?

Flatulence, simply stated, is gas buildup in the colon. It is caused due to production of gas by bacteria within intestines during the process of digesting sugars and polysaccharides. Some bacteria are more capable of producing gas and thus they result into chronic flatulence. Other causes of flatulence include maldigestion or malabsorption of sugars and polysaccharides as well as bacterial overgrowth of the small intestine. Constipation too is one of the causes of flatulence as the longer food waste remains in colon, the more time it has to ferment that in turn produces stomach gas.

Avoid Foods that Cause Flatulence

Anyone suffering from the gas problem of flatulence must avoid such food that form excessive intestinal gas like beans, peas, lentils, cabbage, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, bananas, raisins, whole-wheat bread, salads and carbonated drinks. Many people are intolerant of lactose and as such milk and dairy products too should be avoided by them to treat flatulence. Apart from avoiding flatulence causing food, one must also take the following measures.

• Avoid or cut back on fatty foods.

• When excessive gas is formed in your intestine, reduce intake of high fiber foods (temporarily though). When the flatulence problem is under control, start including high fiber foods in your diet gradually.

• Have more smaller meals and avoid having two or three large meals. Also eat slowly to aid proper digestion of the food you eat.

• Do not just sit back or lie down after meals. Have a slow walk or move around doing light works. This aids digestion and avoids flatulence.

How to Avoid Belching?

Belching, also called burping, is the normal act of expelling out stomach gas through mouth. Belching is, in fact, caused by inflated stomach that has dilated due to swallowed air. Air can be swallowed while gulping food and drinking rapidly or due to anxiety as well as carbonated drinks. The swallowed air in the stomach (stomach gas) causes abdominal discomfort that in turn results into belching for expelling the air out to get gas relief. Acid reflux or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) can also cause belching. When stomach acid backs up into esophagus, the person may swallow repeatedly in order to clear the material. This sometimes leads to swallowing more air and more belching. To avoid belching, take the following measures.

• Make habit of eating and drinking slowly. This will eliminate the chance of swallowing air.

• Avoid chewing gum. The action causes you to swallow more often increasing the chances of swallowing air.

• Quit smoking. Smoking not only causes belching and other intestinal gas problems, it is also not good for general health.

• People using dentures should take care of the proper fit of their denture sets otherwise they can unknowingly swallow air while eating and drinking causing stomach gas.

Yoga helps women tackle three major phases of life

Yoga can help women in dealing with three most important phases of their life – menstruation, maternity and menopause. Yoga asansas and pranayama are helpful in dealing with these three phases, say yoga experts.

Menstruation

Women go through this phase between puberty and menopause. To ensure a healthy menstrual cycle, proper functioning of ovaries is important. During this phase, women often experience painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), and premenstrual syndrome. Stress and many other factors including inflammation, and womb spasm can cause dysmenorrhea.

Maternity

Some specific yoga poses can prevent miscarriages and infertility in women caused by defective ovaries, and displacement of uterus. During pregnancy, the first three months are crucial, when pre-natal care is advised. Yoga improves the strength of pelvic muscles and prevents back strain due to extra weight of the baby. Strong uterine muscles can ease delivery pain.

Meditation, along with pranayama and other yoga poses such as bhujangasana, gomukhasana can help in stimulating the pituitary gland, responsible for secretion of pro-lactin.

Performing yoga after delivery can help in removing excess fat that was built up in the body during pregnancy, while also re-shaping the body and removing any stress on the pelvis, shoulders, neck and back during pregnancy period. Some specific yoga poses such as Virabhadrasana II, Viparita karani, ujjayi breathing, Salambhasana, Sukhasana, MArichyasana, Paripurna Navasana, are particularly helpful poses during the post-partum period.

Certain poses such as Adho Mukha Svanasana, Trikonasana, Marichyasana, Vipariti Karini, and Bhujangasana are particularly helpful for women who have had C-sections.